THIS IS NOT AT ALL RECOMMENDED!!!

While this is a valid method of determining the gender of a pupa inside a cocoon, due to its delicate nature, I do not recommend using it.

If you still feel this needs to be done, make sure you do it VERY carefully!

You should use small sewing scissors and cut through the silk casing very slowly.

Possible Risks:

• You may unintentionally cut into the pupa; either making the moth deformed when it emerges, or even worse, killing it.
• The silk casing helps the moth maintain moisture; if it is removed, the pupa sometimes tend to dry out and die (especially if they are stored in the fridge over the winter). The best way to reduce this risk is to store the cocoons in the fridge until spring, and open them in the spring, after winter diapause is complete.
• If the pupae are free of a casing, it is easier for predators to reach them (squirrels, mice, chipmunks, spiders, etc.)and carry them away, or eat them.

DO THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK!!!!