How long does a caterpillar stay in its cocoon?

A caterpillar rests inside because it is changing. Many stay about one or two weeks. Some stay all winter. Then a moth or butterfly comes out.

A caterpillar may stay tucked away for about one to three weeks, but some stay for months if winter comes. It waits there while its body changes into a moth or butterfly. It is like staying wrapped in a blanket until the big change is ready.

The time depends on the kind of caterpillar and the weather. Many butterfly caterpillars stay in a chrysalis, a hard resting case, for about 7 to 14 days. Many moth caterpillars spin a silk cocoon and stay inside for a few weeks. Some stay for months and come out after winter, when it is warm and there are leaves or flowers to eat. Fun fact: a silkworm’s cocoon can be made from one long silk thread.