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Butterfly FAQ

Zebra butterfly

What is a Chrysalis?
It is the pupa (cocoon like) stage of a butterfly's life cycle. It is the protective covering of the adult butterfly, different from the cocoon of a moth, a chrysalis is not covered in silk. Chrysalis of butterflies come in all shapes, sizes, and colours, and can often be observed moving and 'twitching' when disturbed. The chyrsalis of an adult Monarch Butterfly is an emerald green covering with metallic marketings.

Can the Monarch Butterfly survive in Melbourne?
Monarch Butterflies have been living in Australia for the last 150 years and are native to all parts of Australia. Some species of butterflies do have a short lifespan, however the Monarch butterflies is a very robust butterfly and has a lifespan in excess of 6 weeks. Some Monarchs have been known to live for up to 6 months!

Is it cruel to capture a Butterfly?
Our butterflies are raised by breeders, who follow the strictest standards of raising and shipping these beautiful creatures. The butterflies are bred in natural conditions and if you follow the instructions they will have no problem adjusting to the environment they are released in.

Are the breeders Accredited?
Yes! Our breeders are members of the International Butterfly Breeders' Association.

What happens if I receive a butterfly that has died in transit?
This is a rare situation, whilst every effort is made to ensure that the chrysalis is a healthy and live, on the slim chance that this occurs you should contact us immediately and we will arrange to have the package collected from you and provide you with another. Please see our terms and conditions.

What type of weather conditions should I release my butterfly?
You should release your butterfly on a warm day. Avoid releasing your butterfly in strong winds and heavy rain.

Will the butterfly survive once I release it?
Yes! The butterfly will continue on their normal life cylce, travelling 100's of kilometers away, stopping to find host plants to feed and lay their eggs, and so the cycle continues.
Releasing butterflies encourages replenishing the butterfly population threaten by environmental changes.