Butterfly Facts: Lifecycle, Migration & Pollination

Butterflies are insects belonging to the order Lepidoptera, with over 20,000 species found on every continent except Antarctica. These delicate creatures display vibrant colors and patterns on wings covered with thousands of tiny scales.

Wing Structure and Colors

Butterfly wings are covered with thousands of overlapping scales arranged like shingles on a roof. Each scale is a flattened hair about 200 microns long. These scales create the brilliant colors we observe through two mechanisms. Pigments produce colors like yellows, reds, and blacks.

Metamorphosis and Life Cycle

Eggs hatch into caterpillars after 3 to 5 days. Caterpillars molt their skin 4 to 5 times as they outgrow it. After 2 to 5 weeks, caterpillars form chrysalises. This transformation takes 10 to 14 days.

Senses and Feeding

Butterflies have compound eyes with thousands of tiny lenses providing nearly 360 degree vision. They see ultraviolet light invisible to humans. Many flowers have UV patterns that guide butterflies to nectar. Butterflies taste through their feet.

Migration and Navigation

Some butterfly species undertake remarkable migrations. Monarch butterflies migrate up to 3,000 miles from Canada and the United States to specific mountain forests in Mexico. Millions gather in small areas creating spectacular concentrations. Painted lady butterflies migrate between Africa and Europe, traveling up to 9,000 miles.

Pollination and Ecological Importance

Butterflies are important pollinators, though less efficient than bees. Their long legs prevent them from contacting all flower parts, but they visit many flower species bees ignore. Butterflies prefer flowers with landing platforms and bright colors. They can see red, unlike bees.