Frequently asked questions about butterflies, butterfly releases, and Butterfly Adventures.

Q What is a butterfly release?
Butterfly releases are exactly what they sounds like. We provide you live butterflies in individually packaged envelopes for your release. You can release them individually in release envelopes, or all at once in a release basket. The butterflies are shipped to you in release envelopes. All you must do is open the envelope and marvel while these beautiful creatures flutter away!

Q How does this work?
Your order will arrive the day before the event, (via a courier or overnight Express Post) inside an insulated container. The butterflies are packaged within individual release boxes, so there is absolutely no preparation necessary. Just keep the butterflies in a cool dark place (such as a closet) until the event. About 30 minutes before the scheduled release, place the butterfly release boxes outside to allow them to warm up. Do not open the boxes until the release. When you are ready, all you have to do is open the release boxes and enjoy the beauty as the butterflies flutter away.

Q What is the suitable time and place for a release?

You should only release butterflies  outdoors  when the temperatures are  20C or above.  Other wise your butterflies  will be sleepy.  It is best  to be in a wind protected spot  (not  on the beach)  and release  the butterflies at least an hour before the  sunset.

Q How far in advance should I order?
We ask that you place your order at least six weeks prior to your event. If not, please contact us for availability.

QShould I do a Mass Release or an Individual Release?
We recommend doing Individual Releases, meaning the butterflies are released individually from their own boxes. Individual Releases allow an unparalleled level of guest participation, which will truly make your event be forever remembered.
A Mass Release is just what it sounds like. All of the butterflies are placed in a large decorative box. When you are ready to release the butterflies, all you need to do is remove the lid and enjoy the beauty as the butterflies flutter away.
You can also order a display enclosure that allows you to display the butterflies just before the release or have them displayed at the reception.

Q How many butterflies should I purchase?
For events with less than 50 guests, we recommend you order at least 1-2 dozen butterflies. For events with 50-150 guests, we recommend you order at least 3 dozen butterflies. For events with more than 150 guests, we recommend you order at least 5 dozen butterflies. If doing individual releases, to allow for maximum guest participation, we suggest you order enough butterflies to allow for one per guest. Even two butterflies released by the couple after their vows will produce an unforgettable effect.

Q How do I go about getting butterflies for my event?
The easiest way is to send an enquiry via an email stating:

• Date of your event
• How many butterflies you want
• Your addres or at least the city and the suburb
• Whether you are after individual or mass release
• Other details or questions you have

We accept direct transfer of funds via net banking, PayPal and cheques

Q Is this inhumane?
Our butterflies are raised by breeders, who follow the strictest standards of raising and shipping these beautiful creatures. The butterflies are bred in natural conditions and if you follow the instructions they will have no problem adjusting to their environment.

Q Does it unbalance the ecosystem?
Not at all! Monarchs have been living in Australia and New Zealand during the last 150 years. They came here following their unique host plant, Asclepias sp. (swan plant). Therefore Monarchs do not compete with any other Australian butterfly.

Q I heard butterflies only live for two days. How can they survive the release?
This is largely a myth. Some species of butterflies do have a short lifespan. Monarchs have a lifespan in excess of 6 weeks. Some Monarchs have been known to live for up to 6 months!

Q What if I receive a deceased butterfly?
Our butterflies are raised by experienced breeders, so the chances of them perishing during shipment are extremely slim. In the unlikely event of this happening Butterfly Adventures will refund for any butterflies perished in transit.