Butterflies Flew 2,600 Miles Across the Atlantic Without Stopping

A group of painted lady butterflies, not typically found in South America, were discovered in French Guiana, sparking a decade-long investigation by entomologist Gerard Talavera and his team. Through a combination of methods, including analyzing wind conditions, sequencing genomes, and studying pollen grains, the researchers concluded that the butterflies likely flew 2,600 miles across the Atlantic Ocean from West Africa with the assistance of favorable winds. This remarkable journey, estimated to take between five and eight days, showcases the butterflies' ability to alternate between active flight and gliding with the wind. The study sheds light on the importance of wind patterns, specifically the Saharan Air Layer, in aiding the migration of insects over vast distances. The findings, published in the journal Nature Communications, highlight the innovative techniques used by scientists to uncover the mysteries of butterfly migration routes, demonstrating the significance of collaborative research efforts in understanding the natural world.