🦋On #LearnAboutButterfliesDay, let’s talk about why you shouldn’t do butterfly releases at funerals (or weddings, or any celebration).

At first glance, butterfly releases seem like a beautiful tribute with wonderful symbolism. They’re a lovely alternative to dove and balloon releases (ask me why you should avoid those too).

However… butterfly experts and conservationists unanimously agree that these releases are harmful and a long-lasting form of environmental pollution!

Butterflies are mass produced by breeders and shipped in flat little envelopes. Sometimes they’re put on ice to keep them dormant during transit. Many die on route, either from exposure or being crushed. The ones who survive emerge weak and disoriented. They’re suddenly in an unfamiliar environment, possibly in the wrong season or climate. They can’t find food. They may even be too weak to flutter away from the funeral they’re supposed to be “performing” at.

Mass production of monarchs also allows diseases to spread to native monarch populations. Crossbreeding of native and non-native species can have unexpected negative results. Releasing monarchs too far from their home inhibits their migratory instincts. All of this disrupts the ecological balance.

How heartbreaking would it be for your beautiful butterfly ceremony to actually contribute to the decline of the species?! And how disturbing would it be for your guests trying to release dead or dying butterflies?

For more information about harmful funeral tributes, and safer alternatives, check out my handy resource at https://www.louisepachella.com/blog/harmfulfuneraltributes

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