The Bottom Line
- Fascinating to observe butterfly life cycle
- Easy to do science project which kids love
- Easy on the wallet
- You have to be very consistent and dedicated in the care of the creatures
- Handle the formed chrysalides carefully to avoid dropping
- Environmental temperature has to be just right
- You have to pay extra shipping and handling ($3) if you chose mail in coupon kit
Description
- The Mini Butterfly Bungalow is available for $17.99
- The product is made by Insect Lore
- The Mini Butterfly Bungalow is a great "green" toy
Guide Review - Insect Lore Mini Butterfly Bungalow
The kit consists of an airy mesh tent with a zipper on the side by which you can access the insides. The caterpillar larvae arrive in a sealed container. You also get food in the package. You have to harvest the larvae within the container itself and wait for them to transform into chrysalides which attach themselves to the paper discs on the roof of the container.
At this stage, you have to carefully transfer the chrysalides into the mesh bungalow. This has to be done delicately so as to avoid the chrysalides from falling down. Then, you wait until the butterflies begin to emerge. You can feed them sugar water sprinkled on flowers.
The whole process is pretty streamlined as long as you follow the instructions to a tee. As these are live creatures you're dealing with, you got to be responsible and alert about changes in temperature etc. Sometimes, it may be possible that some of the larvae doesn't turn into butterflies due to some inherent defect. Most times, however, you shouldn't have a problem.
I liked the concept of the Mini Butterfly Bungalow very much. It's a lovely way to get your child interested in the mysteries of nature.
