On emerging the butterfly uses a liquid which softens the shell of the chrysalis. Additionally, it uses two sharp claws located on the thick joints at the base of the forewings to help make its way out. Having emerged from the chrysalis, the butterfly will usually sit on the empty shell in order to expand and harden its wings.

Most butterfly pupae will either turn dark or become clear when the butterfly is ready to emerge. It only takes a few seconds for a butterfly to come out of its pupae and it usually emerges in the mornings.