by Barbara Frazier

Created on: August 07, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

Pondering the Amazing Butterfly

Hasn't everyone at one, time or another pondered the mysteries and beauty of butterflies? From minute pea-size flutterers to enormous Luna moths the creatures we call butterflies sprinkle the earth with spectacular beauty. Each species comes dressed in a personalized gown of spectacular, fragile, scale-covered wings with a unique design and color all of its own. Growing from tiny eggs to multi-legged caterpillars the ingenious creatures wrap themselves in a silken comforter to sleep through the long winter ready to emerge fully dressed for the annual spring ball.

Butterflies complete many functions on our good earth. Numerous creatures appreciate the winged beauties for more than their looks; a decretive display always whets the pallet and satisfies hunger in a way no common insect could. Although the tempting meal may seem appetizing, some varieties, such as the Monarch and the Pipevine butterflies are poisonous when ingested, causing vomiting and the lack of desire for a second helping. Butterflies flutter from flower to flower pollinating our plants, spreading productivity while they dine on the fragrant blooms. In their larval state butterflies recycle vegetation, causing new growth and invigorating tired plants. But most of all the fairy-winged insects create mystery, laughter and intrigue in our sometimes-gloomy lives.
Butterflies are no slouches in the insect world either. The Queen Alexandria Birdwing Butterfly grows to the whopping width of twelve full inches. Take the Monarch Butterfly all arrayed in its velvety earth tone wings that carry him thousands of miles to return to the exact tree where he was created, laying eggs along the path home. Some butterfly species fly over oceans to reach their destination. Within these timid little creatures lay enormous strength of body and determination to fulfill their divine destiny. But even more astounding is the roll they play in human lives. There's something about a butterfly that brings out the child in us. If you've ever felt his tickling feet clutching your arm while it sucks up the salt from your skin you become transformed. The wonderment of nature springs to the surface, reminiscent of holding a conk shell to your ear to hear the ocean waves, or watching the sun spread its multi-colored quilt across the horizon. The sight of the first butterfly of spring gives a hope for a season of beauteous bounty.
Whether or not you are a fan of the squirmy caterpillar you can't deny that the butterfly holds its own in the race for Gods most artistic creation.

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