Butterflies are one of the most beautiful and interesting life forms in the animal kingdom. The butterfly is an insect from the order of Lepidoptera. What is most fascinating about the butterfly is the transformation that it undertakes during its life cycle. The Life cycle of a butterfly consists of four stages - the egg, the larva that is also known as the caterpillar, pupa which is the chrysalis or cocoon stage and then to the butterfly.

This metamorphosis is truly an amazing event and is an incredible transformation for such a small creature. The butterfly is a symbol for change, rebirth, lightness and new life from old.

Around the world, butterflies have taken on various forms of symbolism and meaning. If there are two butterflies flying together in Chinese culture, it is a symbol of love. In many cultures, the butterfly is a symbol for life and death. In Japan, the butterfly is a representation of a person's soul, whether it be living, dying or already dead. In the Philippines a black butterfly discovered in the house means that a family member has died or will soon die. While in Devonshire people believed that if they didn't kill the first butterfly of the year that they see, then they would have a year of bad luck. The word butterfly in Ancient Greek means soul and mind.

In Christianity the metamorphosis that a butterfly undertakes is symbol of the spiritual path and evolution that all Christians go through, representing a resurrection, rebirth and new beginning.

While there are some people that believe if a butterfly lands on you, it will bring good luck.

The butterfly is one of the most beautiful creations and they are admired for their beauty and the amazing transformation that they undertake throughout their life cycle.