Question: Why do butterflys have such a short lifespan

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  1. Hey lara, that’s a tricky question! I don’t know a lot about butterflies, but I would say it has to do with their “purpose” in life. Unlike humans, lots of animals and insects primary focus is to make babies so they can continue their species. This is an urge that is built into them and they know what to do and how and when. Humans are very complicated!

    So a butterfly ages very quickly, it emerges and goes out to feed, mate with other butterflies, lay its eggs, and then it’s done! It has achieved what it needed to in its life, and it dies soon after! Sounds a bit sad, but at least they are good at their jobs, so we can always enjoy looking at them!

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  2. I love butterflies! I went to the butterfly enclosure here in Sydney and I had a butterfly that did not want to get off my finger. I was so lucky that I could take many wonderful photos of it! 😀 But it is sad that their lifespan is so short!…or is it? hhhhmmmm
    Well according to some the of the butterfly websites, an adult butterfly can have a life-span of approximately one month. This is actually quite long for a butterfly given that in the wild, there are many dangers that the butterfly has to face, such as predators (birds), disease, and even things like cars! A really tiny butterfly may only live a week or so but many can live up to a month. Which is impressive given what a tough world it can be for the graceful butterfly.

    I think the transparent butterfly is my favorite. Do you have a favourite? https://www84.homepage.villanova.edu/danielle.n.fagan/transparent-butterfly2-sm.jpg

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  3. Hi Lara, very good question!
    It is because of their genetic make up which determines everything from the way they look, their fantastic colours and how long each stage of their lives lasts for!

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