Habitat loss, climate change and pesticide use have decreased butterfly populations. Many people don’t realise that butterflies do not live on nectar alone, some species prefer, even require, overripe fruit to feed on. Decaying fruit has carbohydrates and minerals necessary to most butterflies.
Butterflies are particularly fond of oranges, grapefruits, cantaloupe, strawberries, peaches, nectarines, kiwi, apples, watermelon and bananas, especially mushy bananas that have been stored in the freezer and then thawed. Putting a plate inside a larger plate or saucer that is filled with water will keep ants away from the fruit.