How to Overwinter your Black Swallowtails

In this video, I'll talk about how to prepare your Black Swallowtails for winter. I'll also answer questions that I have had about the Black Swallowtail. Thanks for all of the questions! I'll also show you how to make a "Butterfly Pillow for your overwintering black swallowtails.
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Mail: DK's Garden Oasis
14007 S. Bell Road #415
Homer Glen, IL 60491
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[@lorim5235]

This was so helpful, Debbie! Even more info than your first overwinter video. Thank you!

[@dksgardenoasis]

Thank you so much! I tried to add some info I didn't have in my first overwintering video. So thanks for watching 😊

[@lorim5235]

Oh, I had 40 (!) caterpillars hatch on 9/3, but the cold seems to have slowed down their usual timeline. I put a few of the largest in tubes as you showed, and 2 of them purged today! Nice reward for all the tender loving care I've given them for 3 weeks now!

[@melissawood6468]

24:01

[@dksgardenoasis]

???? Thanking subscribers?? Thanks for watching!

[@lorim5235]

I've lost almost half my caterpillars due to cold :( Of the remaining ones, most have pupated or are getting into position. There are 5 stragglers I wish would get on with it - it's been 26 days since they hatched and there are only a few parsley leave left!!! Anyway, I have a question - we're supposed to get at least a week of warmer temps in the 70s (though 50s at night), and I'm concerned some of the butterflies may emerge. My garage and basement will be warm. I heard from someone else that they keep their chrysalises in the fridge....What do you think of that idea? Or do you have another suggestion so my chrysalises will remain dormant until Spring?

[@dksgardenoasis]

Hello! What is your zone? I'm in 5B and they are fine in an unheated garage or shed outside. This year has been strange being so late. Same with Monarchs. Unfortunately, they may perish if it gets too cold as a caterpillar if you can't bring them inside. I am told when they go into a chrysalis they stop development and have ( like an antifreeze) to keep them viable until spring . I have had no experience with putting in the frig. I have 4 that just hatched and I'm leaving them outside. Also don't worry about emerging. It is controlled by daylight not temps at this time of year. But the basement of a house is too warm and may hatch early spring when the day are longer.