Answers
- What are the best weather conditions for a release?
Butterflies should be released outdoors when the temperature is at least 70°F. They also need to be released at least one hour before sunset, so they have sufficient time to find shelter for the night.
- Are butterfly releases seasonal?
Yes, depending on the climate in your area. The temperature needs to be at least 70° F for a successful release, so in most areas these releases are limited to the warmer months. Larvae rearing kits, however, can be ordered year-round because they are kept indoors.
- Are these releases safe for the environment?
Yes. In order to ship butterflies across state lines for release, breeders must obtain a permit from the USDA-APHIS-PPQ-SS (United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Protection Service, Plant Protection and Quarantine, Scientific Services). There are strict guidelines and the USDA permits butterflies to be released only in states that have appropriate habitat. For more information on this click here.
- Is this harmful to the butterflies?
No. The butterflies are packaged carefully and securely to ensure their safe arrival. Occasionally, a few will die during shipment, so we always include extra butterflies to compensate for this small loss.
- How many butterflies should I order?
This greatly depends on the size of your event or the amount of guests that will be watching/participating. For a mass release we recommend at least 3 dozen for a small group. For larger groups it is standard to order 1 butterfly per 1-2 spectators, but some people order more or less depending on their preferences.
- How soon should I place my order?
We ask that you give us at least 4 weeks notice to guarantee the availability for your order. We do understand that orders will occasionally come up at the last minute, or without 4 weeks notice available, so we do make every effort to be able to fulfill these orders. We ask that you contact us before placing these orders to ensure availability.
- How are the butterflies packaged? Are they harmed during shipment?
The butterflies are packaged carefully and securely, to ensure safe delivery and to prevent any harm coming to them. They are placed in individual envelopes, and packaged in an insulated box to keep them cool. As long as they are kept cool they will remain in a dormant stage, preventing any damage to come to them. It is essential that they stay cool while packaged. For instructions on how to care for your butterflies after receiving them, click here.
- How are the butterflies shipped?
We always ship butterfly orders via Overnight Priority shipping to ensure safe arrival to you. You will receive the butterflies 1-2 days before your scheduled event.
- How do I care for my butterflies until the release?
For caring instructions please click here. |
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