Caterpillars/Butterfly Questions
What happens to butterflies during the winter?
Some butterflies, like Monarchs and Painted Ladies, migrate to warmer climates. Those that do not migrate often find niches or microclimates in which to shelter during the intense cold. One winter, our entomologist turned over a rock and found a butterfly beneath it. The butterfly was so cold it could hardly move! But the underside of the rock was an excellent place for the butterfly to survive. On sunny winter days, the rock was warmed by the sun and maintained its warmth even during the cold evenings. The ground beneath the rock was also warmer than the ambient air temperatures. Add to this the fact that insect bodies also contain glycols (which lower their freezing temperature) and you have a great chance of winter survival!
Do you offer different species of butterflies?
No, we only provide the Painted Lady Butterfly at this time.
Are Painted Lady Butterflies native to my location?
Painted Lady Butterflies are found almost everywhere! They are native to Europe, Canada, the United States, Asia, Africa and even Iceland!
Where can I find a Painted Lady Butterfly?
Look for Painted Lady Butterflies in sunny meadows, parks, marshes and gardens.
Is a butterfly an insect?
Yes! Like all insects, a butterfly has three body parts: head, thorax and abdomen, three pairs of jointed legs, one pair of antennae and an exoskeleton.
Why is the Painted Lady Butterfly also known as the "Thistle Butterfly"?
The Painted Lady Butterfly is nicknamed the "Thistle Butterfly" because it is partial to the nectar of thistles.
What is a group of butterflies called?
A group of butterflies is called a "swarm," "rabble," "kaleidoscope," or "flutter of butterflies."
Is it environmentally safe to release my butterflies?
Yes! The Painted Lady is native throughout Europe and they will go onto act as great pollinators!
What is an “imago"?
“Imago” is another word for “adult”.
What is the scientific name of the Painted Lady Butterfly?