A flutter of butterflies to celebrate important moments
Butterfly type
We specialize in raising caterpillars, particularly the Painted Lady butterfly, also known as the Belle-Dame (in French and Vanessa cardui in Latin). This medium-sized butterfly, with a wingspan of 3.5 to 4.5 cm, is distinguished by its many colors, primarily orange and black, though shades of brown, white, pink, and even blue are also present. It is one of the most widespread butterflies in the world, found on every continent except Antarctica and South America.
Flight from mesh cage
The butterfly cage (mesh cage) allows one person to release all the butterflies at once. This type of release is convenient when the number of people present is too small, too large, or simply unknown. Butterfly cages are not included in the price of the butterflies. Sold separately.
Which cage model to choose
Our various mesh cage sizes can each accommodate a certain maximum number of butterflies: 35 or fewer for the small cage, 75 or fewer for the large cage, and any number above that for the extra-large cage. Depending on the situation, we may recommend a different size than the one you initially chose.
Flight from an individual envelope
An individual envelope "papillote in French” is a paper pouch containing a single butterfly, packaged in a small triangular cardboard box for easy handling. Individual envelopes are an excellent option for allowing everyone to release their own significant butterfly. The price of the individual envelopes is included in the price of the butterflies.
How many butterflies for a WOW effect !
The flights begin to have the desired effect once a certain number of butterflies is reached—about fifteen for small groups, and at least 25 for larger crowds.
More takeoff methods will follow shortly
Pickup or Delivery
Alibibittes offers two options: either pick up your order at Alibibittes in Varennes, or use a shipping carrier such as UPS or FedEx for butterfly-related orders. You can pick up your order the day before your event or on the day of the event. When we use a shipping carrier, you’ll receive your order the day before your release. You’ll need to be present to receive it.
Pickup via Mesh cage
Pickup at Alibibittes in Varennes is available during our business hours and can be arranged the day before or the day of your event. You’ll need to bring a light, opaque blanket to cover the cage so the butterflies remain calm during the transportation. Once you arrive at your destination, keep them in a cool, dark room.
Pickup via Individual envelope
Once you have received the box containing the butterflies, it is important to keep them away from heat and direct sunlight at all times. Store the butterflies in a cool place; the bottom of the refrigerator is recommended. For transport, a cooler with ice packs is ideal. One hour before release, take them out of the refrigerator so they can wake up and prepare to fly.
Transport & Handling
If you choose to have the butterflies delivered, you’ll need to be home when the delivery arrives. We can’t guarantee a specific time because we use an outside carrier. You’ll receive a tracking number from the carrier so you can track your package. As soon as you receive your butterflies, place them at the bottom of your refrigerator (preferably in the crisper drawer).
Stages in the Life Cycle of a Butterfly
The story of raising caterpillars begins with the egg, which takes 4 to 5 days to hatch. The caterpillar that emerges is hungry and will do nothing but eat for the next 10 to 14 days. Once it reaches its maximum size, the larvae hangs upside down from the paper and molts one last time to form a chrysalis. Inside, the caterpillar will transform into a butterfly, a process that takes 8 to 10 days. Finally, the butterfly emerges in all its splendor and spreads its wings. You should allow at least two days before letting it fly away. All in all, you should plan on three to four weeks for the entire experience.
Q&A
How to feed the butterflies: You can give them a slice of orange each day or a small container of sugar water.
How long can you keep the butterflies before releasing them: For a wedding butterfly release, it’s best to do it on the same day or the next day. However, it’s possible to keep them for an extra day if you feed them properly.
Can the mesh cages be reused? No problem—the cages from Alibibittes are very high quality. Be sure to wash them thoroughly with mild dish soap and, most importantly, rinse them several times. Let them dry and store them for next year.