Where can I get one of those "grow your own butterfly" kits?

[Elf]

(Couldn't think where to put this but fingers crossed ...)

I've read about this kit but can't remember much detail. I'm sure you know what I mean. You send off about £1million and someone sends you a friendly environment box thing housing caterpillars and you watch them gradually turn into beautiful butterflies. Which you then set free of course.

Sounds lovely doesn't it?

Any leads welcome. Thanks.

[MrsWeasley]

I get mine from insectlore

They have different kits.

HTH

[LadyMuck]

There are home kits here for just under £20. Ds2 did one and had a very high success rate (much to my surprise).

[MrsWeasley]

I quite fancy the ladybird set, this year.

[Elf]

That is perfect. I can't decide which one to get now. Do I go for the more expensive big one or settle for the smaller garden one. Decisions decisions.

Thank you both.

[charliecat]

how cool..just ordered one!

[MrsWeasley]

I bought this one a few years ago and re-use the house every year. Its a pop up thing so if doesnt take up much room when not is use. Have also use and old tank like this before we got he pop up.

[Elf]

Just ordered one, thanks again.

[charliecat]

What do they eat? DO you have to go branch picking for leaves?

[MrsWeasley]

The caterpillars come with all their own food, you dont need to do anything. Once they become butterflies you can pick flowers and put them in the container. They will also send you details about adding sugar and water I think it is.
You can then release them into the garden.

[charliecat]

Oh lovely thanks

[powpow]

my daughter was given 5 caterpillars last year for a birthday present.
it was the best present she ever got.
we all loved watching the pillars and when they made their cocoons it was magic.
we just missed them hatching out.

totally worth it!

[Mung]

What age child would you recommend these for?

[powpow]

5 and upwards,BUT they have to have some self control not to shake the net terrarium and disturb the pillars.
my girl was 6 at the time and still she wanted to pick up the cage. it shouldn't be moved, especially when they are climbing to make their cocoons. if they can't get to the top or are knocked off, they will die.
we lost one pillar out of 5 and ended up having to put it up high where they couldn't reach it without help.