How Does This Tiny Creature Travel 15,000km Across Two Continents?
It’s a multi-generational trip that lasts for six months and covers both the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara Desert
Animals migrate all the time. Either to move onto better feeding grounds, to mate, or simply because of the changing seasons. But one animal, in particular, takes this a step further.
Butterflies are not exactly known for their flying ability. They’re small, slow and fragile, easily being squashed by a human hand. So how is it that this little creature can travel distances of over 15,000km at the end of every winter?
Although some species like the Monarch butterfly make long distances from Canada to Mexico, it’s the European Painted Lady that really shines a spotlight.
From its summer habitat in the northern parts of Scandanavia, this unique butterfly undertakes a mammoth journey to central Africa, only to also return six months later, totalling a distance of 15,000km. (9,300 miles)
During this journey, they have to fly over the 2,000m high Alps, cross the Mediterranean Sea and brave the Sahara Desert where daytime temperatures can reach 50°C. (122°F)
