#butterflycatching

Education Specialist Erin Paterson explains how to catch butterflies using a net and a little teamwork.

First things first, you need a net!

Photo © nhbs

When you spot the butterfly you want, do not recklessly swing your net around trying to catch it. This method usually results in failure of catching the butterfly. Swinging the net around might potentially harm it and frighten the butterfly, making it fly away faster or into an area you cannot get to. Be patient and wait for it to land on a nearby flower or shrub.

Using your hands for catching is rather difficult and harmful for the butterfly if not done correctly. Having a net is your best way for catching the butterfly. When using your net, make sure to always swing horizontally to the ground. Swinging the net down towards the butterfly gives it a larger area to escape and can cause a lot of damage to the butterfly and the plant it landed on. Also, try to not hit the butterfly with the edge of the net, for it can kill the butterfly.