The story of the change from caterpillar to moth is one that never ceases to amaze. This eye-opening picture book tells it anew with close-up photographs following the metamorphosis of the harlequin moth. It shows the reader exactly what happens at each of the many stages and concludes with information on several of the other well-known moths.

Author and photographer begin with the newly laid egg and a view of the growth it contains. From the egg comes the caterpillar, which molts five different times. Not until the third molt does it display the bright color pattern that inspires its popular name of harlequin. At last the caterpillar spins a cocoon, inside of which it turns first into a pupa and then into an adult moth. Upon emergence, it pumps up its wings with blood and soon is ready to mate, thus starting the cycle again.

Designed for children who want accurate explanations for the natural wonders they observe, this title may give them a lifelong interest in the world of insects.

From the dust jacket