When the butterflies arrive, open the top of the package. It is normal to hear a scratching noise & once you replace the ice pack the butterflies will settle down. Remove the Styrofoam lid, find the ice pack inside, and replace it with a similar frozen ice pack. If reusable ice pack is not available a Ziploc bag filled with ice cubes can be used.

Put the Styrofoam lid back on loosely (leaving a small gap to allow some ventilation). The idea is to keep the butterflies slightly chilled and dormant until it is time for them to fly!

Store the butterflies in a cool, dark place (ex. air conditioned room, basement, between 60-75 degrees, no need to refrigerate) until ready to transport to the event. When transporting butterflies to the wedding, keep them covered to shield them from light.

The butterflies will need to warm up before they are released. You may remove the box, or boxes of envelopes from the Styrofoam cooler as indicated below:  One hour before you plan on releasing them on days 75 degrees or below.  ½   hour before you plan on releasing them on days above 75 degrees.
Butterflies being released from individual personalized envelopes: Gently hold the envelope and carefully unfold the flaps. As soon as the envelope is opened the butterfly should take flight.

Using a designer display cage, or release box: The butterflies will be shipped in individual envelopes and will need to be placed in the cage. Open each envelope inside the cage, using care not to allow the butterflies to escape. Place the envelope in the cage either through the top or through the opening in the side. Should you want to protect the cage, it would be necessary to place paper or material on the bottom. To feed your butterflies, soak cotton balls or a paper towel in a mixture of sugar water (2 teaspoons sugar to one cup of water) and place in a shallow dish in the bottom of the cage. If you prefer, you can place fresh flowers in the cage and sprinkle them with the sugar water. Remove the food source prior to the release so the butterflies will want to fly from the container.

BUTTERFLY GUARANTEE:
We cannot guarantee a successful release if you release the butterflies in inclement weather, or if your release day temperature is below 70 degrees. We recommend that you do not release them in the rain. An alternate plan is to display the butterflies as a centerpiece. Simply cover a basket with tulle, tie it with a ribbon and use it as a display cage. The butterflies can live out their lives in the basket, or you can release them on a nicer day. See feeding instructions on using a designer display cage, or release box.

The release must he made during daylight hours and must be outdoors. Due to unforeseen circumstances, should your butterflies arrive deceased, please call us within 24 hours and return them for credit. We ship approximately 1-3 extra butterflies to compensate for potential casualties.