During my afternoon walk the other day, a pale blue butterfly circled and flew about, landing briefly on my hand before taking off again. Something about butterflies is calming and peaceful. I always pause whatever I’m doing and watch them. Their colors are spectacular in the sunlight. Monarch butterflies are particularly impressive; just knowing they migrate thousands of miles is unbelievable. So, what attracts butterflies? How do they navigate?
Primarily, butterflies are attracted to colorful and bright flowers for the nectar. As they are on a flower, they pick up pollen and carry it to other plants, serving a vital pollination role. Butterflies also need warmth, so if you watch closely, you’ll see when they are on plants, they turn to face upwards towards the sun. Hovering in the air also keeps their wings warm. Brilliant butterfly colors are the result of a complex mix of chemicals and usually serve as warnings to predators and attractants to potential mates. And those Monarchs? Current theories of navigation include the length of daylight (sun position), temperature, and sensitivity to the Earth’s magnetic field as a compass. See the PBS YouTube video linked below to watch Monarchs from an amazing perspective (hint, hummingbird drone).
As writers and artists, it’s essential to slow down and observe the beauty around us. Butterflies provide a unique mix of color, flight, and fragility. Following them as they light on flowers or are swept upward in a gust of Spring wind can lift our creative spirit. Spend a moment seeking what’s fragile in you and then gently honor it with your art. Butterflies live briefly, but the essence of their presence is unforgettable.
Photo credit: Monarch Butterfly On Flower by David Wagner
Supporting articles:
Scientists Crack Mystery of Monarch Navigation
Scientists Crack Code Of Monarch Butterfly's Internal Compass: Here's How It Works