The journey of a hornworm goes through several phases throughout its lifetime. From emerging as a tiny egg, the hornworm slowly grows into a caterpillar that voraciously consumes on foliage. As the caterpillar grows, it sheds its skin numerous times, shedding its old skin for a new one, enabling its body to expand. After a sequence of molts, the hornworm reaches its full size, measuring approximately three to four inches in length. At this point, it enters the chrysalis stage by attaching itself to a secure surface. Within the chrysalis, the hornworm transforms into an entirely different creature. This metamorphosis is nothing short of miraculous, as the larva undergoes a complete restructuring of its physical form. After a duration of waiting, the pupa splits open, and the fully-grown hornworm emerges with colorful winged appendages. The adult hornworm, now a night-flying insect, seeks a mate to proceed the cycle. After mating, the female hornworm deposits her ova on a suitable food source for the next generation. And so, the life span of a hornworm starts over again, persisting the circle of existence for this amazing creature.
The existence of a hornworm goes through several stages throughout its lifetime. From emerging as a tiny egg, the hornworm slowly develops into a caterpillar that voraciously consumes on foliage. As the caterpillar matures, it sheds its skin numerous times, casting off its old skin for a new one, allowing its body to grow. In the aftermath of a series of molts, the hornworm reaches its full size, calculating approximately three to four inches in length. At this point, it enters the chrysalis stage by fastening itself to a safe area. Within the chrysalis, the hornworm metamorphoses into an entirely different creature. This transformation is nothing short of miraculous, as the caterpillar undergoes a total reorganization of its body. After a period of waiting, the pupa splits open, and the fully-grown hornworm emerges with colorful wings. The adult hornworm, now a night-flying insect, seeks a mate to continue the cycle. Subsequent to mating, the female hornworm lays her ova on a suitable host plant for the offspring. And so, the life cycle of a hornworm starts over again, persisting the cycle of life for this amazing creature.

Hornworm Life Cycle Carolina Knowledge Center