Painted Lady Butterflies Complete Historic 2,600-Mile Transatlantic Flight

Researchers uncover the remarkable journey of these insects from West Africa to South America, challenging previous understandings of insect migration.

The butterflies traveled at least 2,600 miles non-stop across the Atlantic Ocean, a first for any insect species.
Genetic and isotope analyses traced the butterflies' origins to Africa and Europe, ruling out North America.
Favorable wind conditions from the Sahara aided their journey, allowing them to glide and conserve energy.
Pollen DNA on the butterflies identified African plant species, confirming their nectar sources before the flight.
This discovery highlights the potential for more frequent long-distance dispersal events due to climate change.