Admiring the flight of a butterfly can become a sublime experience that evokes the freedom of these beings. But admiring the flight of millions of monarch butterflies exponentially elevates that feeling, strangely establishing a connection with nature and even giving us symphonies where the sound comes from their wings that resonate in the forest.
The North American monarch butterfly is unique in its species. Those that are born at the end of summer and beginning of autumn inexplicably extend their life span to undertake one of the longest migratory flights. Millions of monarchs take flight to cross nearly 5 thousand kilometers, on a route that goes from California, United States, to the forests of Mexico. Only those born during that season will undertake the journey. These butterflies were born to fly long distances and protect themselves from the winter cold in warmer areas.
A cascade of flights
Upon reaching the forests of Mexico, millions of butterflies gather in the treetops and offer a natural spectacle that borders on ineffable. Phil Torres of The Jungle Diaries traveled to Mexico to document the passage of swarms of butterflies deep in nature. But not only to capture images, but to answer the question of how many are needed to create sound. The answer is several million and now, thanks to him, we have the opportunity to delight in this natural symphony. which manifests as a cascade of flights as the butterflies beat their wings in the air.
In the mornings, the trees wake up covered in butterflies that protect themselves from the cold. Like a natural tapestry of orange and black, the swarms stay very still to reserve even the smallest amount of energy. As the sun begins to peek over the horizon, it warms its wings and then the butterflies begin their dance to descend to the ground and feed on the nectar of the forest butterflies. It is at that moment where staying silent to listen to the sounds of nature becomes an unforgettable experience.
The audio captured by Torres shows the sound of millions of monarch butterflies and resembles drops hitting the earth. Without a doubt, it is one of the most sublime sounds you can hear, venture to enjoy it.