Description
Just like other nest boxes, a butterfly box is only useful if there are butterflies nearby. It is equally important to make the environment suitable by integrating native nectar plants for the butterflies and host plants for the caterpillars.
It is a big plus to vary the plant species in such a way that the longest possible flowering period is offered. Also ensure a varied planting with both low and high protruding varieties and leave fallen fruit on the ground. Butterflies also contribute to the pollination of nearby plants.
PLACEMENT
It is very important for butterflies that the house is in a sheltered spot with the entrance to the east.
Butterflies use the house to survive the winter and as a shelter on wet, cold summer days. In ideal conditions, they look for a warm resting place where there is no wind and where it cannot be rained on. Make sure that the box is hung in a sunny place. Straightening some thin twigs in the house ensures that the butterflies have an easy grip while they rest.
MAINTENANCE
It is not necessary to actually clean out the nest box because the butterflies do not use it for breeding but as a shelter and hibernation place.