by Adele
(Calabasas, California)
I purchased a butterfly house, but don't know how to use it. I would like instructions. Is the house used after the butterfly emerges as a safe place to go as a protection against birds?
Karen says:
Yes, the butterflies can use it for protection against birds and weather. They also can use the house during hibernation. Certain butterfly species, such as Compton Tortoiseshell, Gray Comma, Mourning Cloak, Red Admiral, Hoary Comma, Question Mark and more, overwinter as adults.
Sometimes the butterfly house can be used at night as a roosting spot by butterflies.
Although it has not been reported that butterfly houses are used a great deal, they make a very pretty addition to the garden.
Place the house in a sunny garden, maybe near some flowers that attract butterflies. The entrance should be away from prevailing winds. Mount it about 4 feet off the ground on a pole. You can put a piece of tree bark or twigs in the house, lean it vertically....as extra spots on which the butterfly can cling.