Think you know the butterflies of The Butterfly Fairy? Think again!

 A few fascinating facts about your favorite flutterbys

Greetings all! We're looking at some little known facts about The Butterfly Fairy's biggest winged stars, from polyphemus moths to majestic tiger swallowtails themselves. Whether they're on pages or in nature, people around the country are drawn to the charismatic creatures found on our museum tours. Let's take a closer look at some of our faves, illustrated and otherwise.

1. Tiger swallowtail

In the story: It wouldn't be The Butterfly Fairy without swallowtails! These butterflies are the stars: Flita, Rachel, Sabrina, and Kyle are all swallowtails.

In real life: Tiger swallowtails are kinda both solitary and social, organizing themselves in groups known as flutters. Did you know tiger swallowtails are known to be dimorphic species? In fact the females only have black morphs. They're nectar flowers consists of swamp milkweed, butterfly bush, lilacs, etc.

2. Painted lady 

In the story: Littlewing is the disabled-wing traveler.

In real life: Painted ladies are communal butterflies who often go fly in large flutters. Just like monarch butterflies, painted ladies are migratory species. However they migrate when they're ready. They don't follow seasonal patterns like monarchs do. The butterflies venture off to Northern Africa to some European and Celtic regions.

3. Red admiral

In the story: Thomas is the leader of keeping the natural cycle of spring in the Arctic.

In real life: Red admirals are related to painted ladies. They are found in North Africa, North America, Europe, some parts of western Asia, and of course the Arctic circle. They may hibernate as chrysalises during half of the year in the polar regions.

4. Peacock butterfly

In the story: Twinkle, the magician to the Fairins at night.

In real life: Peacock butterflies, with their brilliantly colored wings, resemblance eyes of peacock feathers. Hence why they are known as peacock butterflies. The butterflies defend themselves from any danger by creating loud hissing sounds. 

5. Polyphemus moth

In the story: Mitch, the shaman-like advisor to Princess Luna Isabella

In real life: When polyphemus moths emerged from their cocoons, they have no mouth parts. So typically live for 4 to 7 days. But they will mate for life and lay eggs on their favorite host plants. Maple trees to Hickory trees. When they feel threatened by bird predators, they will show their lower wings that mimics great horned owl eyes.