The golden butterfly, nicknamed the ''goddess of spring'' because it emerges during the cherry blossom season, has begun emerging at the home of Yojiro Daichi, 83, in Fukuchiyama City, Kyoto Prefecture. Attracted by the cheerfulness, they gracefully fly around the breeding shed.
It is a species endemic to Japan and designated as an endangered species by the Ministry of the Environment. It has a wingspan of 6 to 7 centimeters and features black and yellow stripes with red spots.
Since the first emergence of this season was confirmed on March 13th, they have been hatching one after another from the pupa state, which lasts for about 10 months. After emerging, they lay eggs immediately and die in 10 to 14 days. Daichi said, ''I feel spring when I see the golden butterfly emerge.I want people to feel the preciousness of life as they live their short lives to the fullest.''
It is said that about 150 will emerge by early April.
