Can butterflies still fly after their wings are touched?
When I was a kid, I was told not to ever touch a butterflies wing, as it would lose its ability to fly. This was because of some dust which was supposed to be in place on the wings and when disturbed it had the described consequences. I doubt at least the story about the dust, which sounds a bit too much like "fairy dust", but am I right?
What damage will be done by touching a butterfly?
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1 Expert Answer
Hongmei L. answered • 02/02/20
Tutor
New to Wyzant
Teaching experience through undergrad biology/statistics
If the wings/scales are not damaged by your touch, I think the butterfly can still fly.
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Michal R.
The residues we produce on our skin is actually harmful to the wings of butterflies. if there is too much of our oils on the butterfly it could break down the components of the wings.04/30/19