Butterflies are one of the most fascinating insects. Their journey from egg to caterpillar to butterfly has amazed people for centuries. They are so graceful and whimsical as they dive and swoop through the warm breeze. These remarkable creatures are often compared with our growth, and many stories are based on the life cycle of a caterpillar. But what does it mean when a butterfly lands on you? Let’s find out!
Why Do Butterflies Land on Humans?
The mysteries of the natural world can be explained with whimsical myths and real magic: science. Curiosity often drives an animal to approach a human, though some animals only want one thing: food. When some types of animals swing by and check out what food you offer, they might not be enthusiastic about your presence. One animal you’ll want to be sure to hide your food far away from is a bear. Butterflies will not break into your campsite and steal your dinner, but they may be attracted to you for other reasons. Butterflies are some of the most beloved insects with unique social structures. Let’s check out some of those reasons why they might choose to rest on you.
What Myths Say
Butterflies have glided like gorgeous fairies through our myths and bedtime stories for as long as we can remember. It would be great if, any time a butterfly lands on a person, they go on to have the best luck and change the world for the better, but let’s take a closer look.
In spirituality, having a butterfly land on you could mean you have been visited by a deceased loved one, that an angel is reaching out to you, or that a spirit guide or divine power sent the butterfly for peace, grace, and goodwill. Butterflies often represent change, transformation, and evolution. One may take the visit of a butterfly to mean a big positive change is about to unfold in that person’s life.
Your vibrational energy (vibes) may just be strong enough to attract butterflies. Moths are quite different in appearance and are awake at night. It’s said that if a butterfly lands on your hand, it either guides you or shows its trust in you. You might be in for some good fortune, depending on what a butterfly lands on. Butterflies have historically stood for love, which makes sense when you consider the saying, “butterflies in my stomach,” referring to how a romantic interest makes you feel.
For example, if a butterfly lands on your legs or feet, they may be that the butterfly is suggesting you take on a more positive way of thinking and living. If it lands on a person’s shoulder, you may find yourself meeting a new person who can aid you on your journey and prove to be valuable. If the lovely creature lands on your face or head, they say you are embarking on a journey of growth and spiritual findings.
From Beyond the Grave
Butterflies, cardinals, bluebirds, and many other animals are symbols of a deceased loved one reaching out to a loved person to say hello and give them good luck throughout their day. The Greeks believe that butterflies are the souls of the deceased. It is also said that the butterfly could be a warning from beyond the grave of things to come. Aztecs believed that the fluttering beauties were the spirits of fallen warriors. Our own Native Americans believed the butterfly to symbolize personal growth, strength, and evolution within one’s spiritual mind.
Some believe the butterfly’s appearance lets a deceased person’s loved one know they have safely made it to the other side. No matter what you believe, a visit from a butterfly is a special occasion and a memorable moment with nature. You can attract butterflies to your yard by planting some of their favorite flowers. Make sure the flowering plants are pet-safe if you have pets who go outside.
What Science Says
Though the scent of sweat attracts graceful and beautiful butterflies, blood, feces, urine, mud, vomit, decaying animals and plants, sweat, and tears are just a few of the icky things that butterflies are into, especially the tiny blue/purple butterflies. Butterflies are omnivores, but caterpillars are vegetarians.
They Like the Smell of Your Sweat
Butterflies can smell the salt in your sweat. It has been scientifically proven that butterflies seek out humans to fill their sodium quota and stay healthy. After all, flowers might be their favorite food, but they aren’t a complete meal with all the vitamins and minerals needed for a butterfly to survive.
They are Using You as a Rest Stop
Butterflies get tired of flying and need to rest. Sometimes, they choose you to perch on while resting their wings.
Because You Are Wearing Bright Colors Mistaken for Flowers
Most flowers are brightly colored, one reason we love them so much. It’s also a way for butterflies to find food. If they see bright yellow and orange and it happens to be found on your shirt, there’s a chance you might be the proud rest stop for a butterfly who may be confused when they realize your brightly colored shirt is not a flower.
They Like the Smell of Your Perfume or Lotion
Another reason humans and butterflies love flowers is the sweet aroma the cheerful flowers give off. The butterflies may be confused by your jasmine and rose body wash, your honeysuckle perfume, and the lavender conditioner you used in your hair. If they choose to nibble on you, they will not hurt you.
They are Attracted to You Out of Curiosity
Just like humans and animals, butterflies are also very curious. They may not understand what you are or what you’re doing but may like to stop by and check it all out a bit closer. If you are working in your garden, don’t be surprised when you find more than one butterfly choosing to rest on you. Whether you believe it to be holy, mystical, magical, spiritual, or just plain awesome, there’s something special about being chosen as a butterfly’s perch. Butterflies are silent communicators and may just be stopping by to say hi.
