Rehydrating a butterfly is a process of restoring flexibility to a dead, dried specimen, making it pliable for proper positioning and display. This process does not involve reviving a living butterfly; rather, it transforms a stiff specimen into a workable state for mounting in a collection. It is a necessary step before a butterfly can be pinned and arranged for aesthetic presentation and detailed study.
Gathering Your Materials
To begin, gather an airtight container, such as a plastic food storage box with a secure lid. This container will serve as your rehydration chamber, maintaining the necessary humidity. The moisture source can be damp paper towels, sand, or a sponge; warm water can expedite the process.
Incorporating a fungicide or insect repellent is important to prevent mold growth and deter pests during rehydration. Common choices include 70% isopropyl alcohol, Lysol, pine-sol, moth crystals, or naphtha. A physical barrier, such as a mesh screen or styrofoam, should be placed above the moist medium to keep the butterfly from direct contact.
The Rehydration Chamber Method
Set up the rehydration chamber by placing your chosen medium at the bottom of the airtight container. Ensure the medium is damp but not saturated, as excess water can damage the specimen. Incorporate a few drops of your mold or pest deterrent directly into the damp medium. This helps maintain a clean environment for the delicate specimen.
Next, place the barrier, whether it is a mesh screen or a piece of plastic, above the moistened medium to create a dry surface for the butterfly. Carefully position your dried butterfly specimens on this barrier. If butterflies are in paper envelopes, clip the corners to allow moisture penetration. Seal the container tightly to trap humidity.
The rehydration process typically takes 24 hours to a few days, often between two to five days, depending on the butterfly’s size and initial dryness. Smaller butterflies may become pliable within a single day, while larger specimens, such as Morphos or large beetles, could require three to five days or more. Check the butterfly’s pliability every 24 hours by gently attempting to move its antennae or limbs; they should move easily, and the wings should open without resistance. Maintaining the chamber at room temperature is sufficient, though refrigeration can further inhibit mold growth. Do not leave specimens in the chamber too long, as prolonged exposure to humidity can lead to decomposition or mold formation.
Handling After Rehydration
Once the butterfly has achieved sufficient pliability, gently remove it from the rehydration chamber. The next step involves carefully pinning the butterfly through its thorax with an entomological pin, ensuring the pin is inserted at a 90-degree angle to the body. A pinning block helps achieve a consistent and uniform height for the pinned specimen, which is beneficial for display.
After pinning, the butterfly is placed on a spreading board. The butterfly’s body should rest within the board’s central groove, with its wings positioned level with the board’s surface. Using fine-tipped forceps or a specialized mounting needle, gently maneuver the forewings forward until their hind margin forms a 90-degree angle with the body. Adjust the hindwings to slightly overlap the forewings, creating a natural and aesthetically pleasing posture. To secure the wings, place narrow strips of wax paper over them and hold down with additional pins, carefully inserted around the wings, not through them, to avoid damage. Adjust the antennae and legs to a lifelike position.
The butterfly must then remain on the spreading board to dry completely, a process that can take several days to a week or more, depending on the specimen’s size and ambient humidity. Larger butterflies require a longer drying period. A common method to check for complete dryness is to gently touch an antenna; if it springs back into place, the butterfly is likely dry.
Once fully dry, carefully remove all temporary pins and wax paper strips, leaving only the central entomological pin in place. Transfer the preserved butterfly to an airtight display case with a foam backing. To protect the collection from pests, small amounts of naphthalene flakes or mothballs can be added to the display case. Store the display case away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity, as these conditions can cause fading, damage, or mold.