Butterflies are not only beautiful, but also have mystery, symbolism and meaning. They are a metaphor representing spiritual rebirth, transformation, change, hope and life. The magnificent, yet short life of the butterfly closely mirrors the process of spiritual transformation.
Butterflies frequently use their wings as a defense mechanism. Either by folding them to blend in with their surroundings, or wearing a full spectrum of colors and patterns to frighten predators, a butterfly’s wings are often their best protection.
Did you know……
- Butterfly wings are transparent
- Butterflies taste with their feet
- Butterflies live on an all-liquid diet
- Butterflies drink from mud puddles
- Butterflies cannot fly if they are cold
- Butterflies often live just a few weeks
- Butterflies are nearsighted but can see colors
- Butterflies cannot feel pain
- Butterflies are great pets
Butterflies are important pollinators. Approximately 1/3 of all plants need pollination to set fruit, and bees and butterflies are major pollinators. Flower nectar is the food for adult butterflies and by flying from flower to flower sipping nectar, pollination occurs.
Butterflies do a great deal for the environment. They provide population control for a number of plant and even insect species by eating them. They also serve as sustenance for other species.
The butterfly represents colors, joy and change. It is considered a sign of resurrection and a miracle of transformation. It is a very positive presence known to many cultures. They represent anything that is beautiful, graceful and positive in nature.
Today, scientists study butterflies closely to see what they can tell us about our changing planet. Affected by climate change, butterflies have had to find new habitats and as well and have hugely been reduced in numbers around the world. In 2004 an estimated 550 million arrived at their usual wintering ground. 10 years later, in 2014 there just 50 million – a decline of 90%.
Butterflies make us sit up and take notice of what is happening around us. We study them for what they are able to tell us about the future prospects on life on earth.
Enjoy and protect these fascinating creatures. They are here for us to enjoy their beauty and environmental assistance and in turn we need to return that respect they also deserve, in the world we share, with them.
