Caterpillar stopped eating

Question

I'm not sure if this is the right place as it isn't really a normal pet.

We found a caterpillar a few days a go, and decided to keep it until it turns in to a butterfly.

We made him a habitat in a clean sweet container, lined with kitchen roll, and sour holes punched in the lid.

He seemed happy for the first two days eating the strawberry we found him on, and an assortment of other leafs from our garden.

Last night he didn't move much, and after returning from work today he doesn't seem to have eaten anything.

Is this normal or are we doing something wrong?

Answer 1

When a caterpillar stops eating it could mean it is either sick or pupating. You should not handle them at this time and should remove any dead ones asap. Sadly, it could mean the caterpillar will die but i would just keep on waiting and seeing if it returns to normal.

Sources of sickness can be from many things. It could be pesticide or other product on the plants, it could be a parasite, or it could even be a product you used on your hands when you handled it (some lotions or sunscreen or something).

I would guess he stopped eating prepping for molt, pupation, or just because. I wouldnt worry too much unless it happens for a few days

Answer 2

I think the reason that your caterpillar might not be eating is either because it is preparing for its molt or shed as some may say, or maybe because it has been in contact with harmful substances.

Answer 3

I.D. the caterpillar and get it the correct plant. They do better on the plant, instead of taking the leaves off the plant, put the whole plant in the enclosure.

If you can’t do that make sure the leaves are as hydrated as possible. Water the plant before you pick the leaves off (give it a few hours) and put the leaves on fresh damp paper towels.

Be aware that the temp inside the enclosure may be considerably hotter than the air outside the enclosure (greenhouse effect). If they get too hot, cold, or dry they won’t eat.