How far can a butterfly smell?

The exact distance that a butterfly can smell varies depending on the species and several factors, including wind speed, humidity, and the concentration of the odour. However, some studies suggest that butterflies may be able to detect scents from several kilometres away.

For example, a study published in the journal "Insect Behaviour" found that the painted lady butterfly (Vanessa cardui) was able to detect the scent of flowers from a distance of up to 10 kilometres. The study used a wind tunnel to create a controlled environment and then released butterflies into the tunnel with different concentrations of floral scent. The butterflies were able to detect the scent even at very low concentrations, suggesting that they have a highly sensitive sense of smell.

Another study, published in the journal "Ecology," found that the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) was able to detect the scent of milkweed plants from a distance of up to 4 kilometres. The monarch butterfly uses milkweed plants as a source of food for their larvae, and the ability to detect the scent of these plants from a long distance allows them to locate suitable habitats for reproduction.

These studies demonstrate that butterflies have a remarkable sense of smell, which allows them to detect scents from long distances. This ability is crucial for butterflies, as it helps them locate food sources and mates, and to avoid predators.