Butterflies mimic each other’s flight patterns to evade predators, finds study

Representative Image | Reuters

Many species of butterflies have evolved the same colour patterns to evade predators. Now a new study has shown that these butterflies also mimic each other’s flight patterns.

The research suggests that this warning signal is more effective than simple colour changes.

The study was carried out by researchers at the University of York. They filmed the flight patterns of 351 butterflies from 38 different species and discovered that the butterflies in the same colour pattern group had more similar flight habits.

The researchers say that the most important factor in a butterfly’s flight patterns is the colour pattern, not the wing shape or temperature. This suggests that the butterflies can communicate their warning message across different species and habitats.

The researchers say that the ability to mimic each other’s flight patterns is an evolved mechanism that allows butterflies to avoid being eaten by predators.

They believe that the warning signal may also help the butterflies to communicate with each other, as well as with other predators.

The study also shows that the flight patterns of butterflies are more complex than previously thought. The researchers say that the mimicry behaviour may be an example of positive reinforcement, where the butterflies’ survival chances increase if they mimic other members of their species.