In the morning or early evening, butterflies will sit with their wings spread out to absorb the sunlight. Once they are warmed up, the butterflies will start to fly around and find food. [1] X Research source Keep in mind, butterflies won’t fly if the temperature is less than 60 degrees. [2] X Research source Be careful - there are certain species of butterflies that could be endangered or harmful and should not be handled. Keep in mind of any allergies you may have (e. g allergies to pollen. . . )

Search in an area with bright colors. Butterflies tend to be seen around red, yellow, orange, pink, and purple blossoms. Look for the following plants that various species of butterfly tend to enjoy: daylily, marigold, oregano, lavender, goldenrod, sage, fennel, and others. [3] X Research source Butterflies also enjoy fruits, so you can find them by citrus trees or blackberry plants. [4] X Research source

Always follow the rules and guidelines at the exhibit. Although you may not be permitted to touch the butterflies at the zoo, there is a chance that one lands on you so you can observe them up close and personal.

Avoid purchasing a cheap “children’s” butterfly net. The shallow netting may harm the butterflies. Research the laws in your area regarding butterfly hunting. In some cities, you may need a permit to carry a net. You can find this information by doing a quick Google search of “butterfly net laws” along with the name of your city and state. [5] X Research source

Carefully flatten the net bag so that the wings of the butterfly are closed over its back. From the outside of the net, use your thumb and forefinger to hold the top part of the wings. With your other hand, use your thumb and forefinger to firmly grasp all four wings, then carefully remove it from the net. Try holding the butterfly upside down; that will calm it down. [6] X Research source

Don’t add any coloring to your sugar water mixture.

If you put sugar water in your hand, butterflies will usually feed for 30 seconds to a minute before flying away again. [9] X Research source

Butterfly’s wings are covered in tiny scales. These scales give them their wing patterns, and make them more aerodynamic when flying. When you touch their wings, they lose scales. If they lose these scales, they can still fly. However, depending on the number of scales lost, it may make them less aerodynamic and can affect their flight pattern slightly. [10] X Research source