Shipping and Delivery

Currently, Monarch Butterflies™ exclusively ships to destinations within Canada. The responsibility for loss and ownership of all purchased items transfers to the consumer upon delivery to the shipping carrier. Our shipments include standard postal insurance from Canada Post. In the event of package loss or physical damage during transit by the courier company, you will receive a refund or a replacement order, contingent upon the courier company’s claim processing. It’s important to note that courier companies do not assume liability for perishable items. In some cases if the package sustains physical damage or is lost the courier service may process a claim based on their terms and conditions. If the package experiences physical damage or loss, the courier service may process a claim according to their terms and conditions in certain cases. Please be aware that we do not cover any shipping costs for orders.

Our guarantee of livestock has a 24-hour guarantee and and is applicable with orders selected to be shipped with the guarantee of livestock, terms apply. Our shipping success rates are extremely high, however, in rare circumstances where the shipping company experiences delays, there may be issues. Weather, distance travelled, and many other factors can prove to be fatal to these fragile insects when there is a delay on the part of the shipping companies. In our decade of experience, when a package arrives on time as expected with the guarantee of livestock our shipping success rates are high. However, we simply cannot control or guarantee that all insects will continue through the metamorphosis process to reach the butterfly stage. In the wild, for every 100 butterfly eggs laid, only 1 reaches the butterfly stage. It is through our experience and following the kit instructions that we have a near-perfect success rate. Despite the near-perfect success rate, we acknowledge that not all butterflies will emerge in perfect form, and may have developmental issues. This happens commonly in the wild, however, it is not common to see when raised in an enclosure. This critical part of the very often fragile butterfly life cycle should be included in all educational materials being used in conjunction with our kits, including the possibility of expiration and should be part of the expectation.

In the event that there is a shipping delay by the courier company and your order does not arrive on the event date, we will not refund or replace the order as we are unable to control shipping delays. Once an order is processed or sent out we cannot refund it or accept returns due to the insects being perishable and being a product that we cannot restock. Our services are to provide you insects however, we do not provide the guarantee of arrival dates. By ordering from us you accept our terms and all purchases are subject to these terms. If you do not accept these terms, please do not place an order with us. Before ordering you must agree to these terms otherwise you are unable to proceed with placing an order. If your insects did not survive, you must email us all photos of the insects that did not survive within the same business day of package arrival using our claims page or initiate your concerns to us with images via email. If the package is left at the front door and is not attended to, this warranty is void. If the package is left in a community mailbox your guarantee is void. If the package has a shipping delay due to the courier company, the guarantee is void. If clear photos are not provided as required, your guarantee is void. If your shipping address that was provided is incorrect and there is a delay your guarantee is void. Before making any livestock order, ensure that you click and agree to our terms otherwise you will not be able to proceed with placing an order.

All shipments are made through Canada Post or other courier companies and shipped to the address provided, however, they may choose, at their discretion, to leave your package at your front door, a side door, with a concierge, at a safe drop location, in a community mailbox, to your updated mailing address, tag it for pickup at your local post office or as otherwise delivered based on Canada Post or other courier companies delivery standard. Although we wish they can hand deliver every package, it is out of our control. Please ensure you provide the most accurate postal address and any special instructions if needed. For full details on Canada Posts delivery terms and conditions, please visit www.canadapost-postescanada.ca or the relevant courier companies terms.

Depending on the shipment method selected and the region the insects are being shipped to, the shipping duration will vary. The insects in your order will continue to grow and will arrive larger, depending on how long the shipping duration takes. The shipping duration will always result in the insects arriving larger and in the case of lengthy shipping duration, they may reach the next growth stage. This will vary based on each order depending on how long the shipping takes to arrive to you by Canada Post or other courier services. We always recommend selecting the quickest shipping method possible, to ensure the insects arrive as soon as possible and you will have a longer raising/hatching or release experience.

For an estimate of how long Canada Post will require the order to be shipped to you, please visit https://www.canadapostpostescanada.ca/information/app/far/business/findARate?execution=e1s1
In the event that there are shipping delays by Canada Post or other courier companies, we do not file a late shipment claim for a refund, As our shipping labels are outsourced. In our agreement, we are unable to request shipping charges to be refunded. Therefore, we do not file or process any shipping delay claims. However, we are able to file for a lost or damaged item with the standard $100 insurance with Canada Post or other courier companies on your behalf along with the required information from your end.

When ordering insects such as caterpillar – build a painted lady butterfly raising kits for two distinct timelines, such as different months, the shipment will be processed based on the earliest available shipping timeline. If you desire multiple shipments, kindly submit separate orders, as each will incur its own shipping costs. Consolidated orders in a single cart will be shipped together, and the shipping fee will reflect the entire order. By default, the complete order will be dispatched with a unified tracking number, unless otherwise specified. This pertains to every order involving our insect varieties, including monarch butterflies, pupae, painted lady butterflies for release, painted lady butterfly raising kits, or any other products/insects listed on our website. To convey specific shipping instructions or preferences, please communicate via email. Our staff will need to confirm and acknowledge these details to ensure feasibility, as not all requests can be accommodated.

Shipping Partners: Under certain circumstances, we may need to utilize alternative sources for shipping your order, depending on availability. In such instances, the courier used may vary.

Shipment Origins:  Your order will be dispatched from various regions based on availability and shipment origins may include Acton, Ontario, Toronto, Ontario, Chambly, Quebec, and other locations as dictated by product availability, notice provide by you and the seasonal availability.

Notification and Inquiry: Depending on the circumstances, we may be provide advance notice of the shipping origin. For specific details, feel free to reach out to us for further information via email along with your order details or any relevant information so that we can assist you further.

Order Tracking Emails: We aim to provide automated tracking updates through Canada Post by linking the email you used to place the order to the shipping label however, this is not always possible. Please be aware that we do not control the email notifications sent by Canada Post, as they come from a third party. Due to email settings or filters, such as spam or junk mail, you may not always receive these automated notifications, we cannot guarantee the delivery of these emails. Please note that these tracking updates via email are sent by Canada Post, not by us, for your convenience and we do not have records of these emails or can resend them.

For your convenience, we provide a tracking number when your order is processing / ships, which should be used to monitor the delivery status of your package. If you do not receive this tracking number, or if you encounter any issues, please contact our team, and we will gladly provide or resend the tracking information.  You can also use the tracking number on the Canada Post tracking page or other courier services pages, to check the status of your delivery to remain up to date on the delivery of your package so that you can collect as soon as possible. Please keep in mind that the responsibility to monitor your order’s delivery using the tracking number lies with you, as the automated emails from Canada Post or other courier services may not always be reliable, up to date or due to your email settings you may not receive them.

Shipping Timeframe: Upon dispatch from the designated regions, the anticipated shipping duration to your location aligns with the timelines published by Canada Post or other courier services on their website. It is important to note that this estimation may not factor in potential shipping delays, and does not consider weekends and holidays in the delivery schedule.

Third-Party Shipment: Please be aware that your order will be shipped by Canada Post or other courier, a third-party carrier. Consequently, we cannot guarantee the exact arrival time stipulated by Canada Post or any other courier company.

Order Placement Recommendations: We strongly advise placing your order well in advance, especially when tied to a specific event date, to accommodate potential shipping delays that may arise.

Courier Services t Operating Hours: Note that Canada Post or possibly other courier companies do not process, ship, or deliver packages during weekends and holidays or as otherwise listed.

Consideration of Non-Business Days: When placing an order, take into account the impact of holidays and weekends on the overall shipping duration, corresponding to the shipping option you have selected.

Shipping Timelines: Due to the intricate nature of our live insect services, which involve extensive planning and weeks of preparation for each order with additional months of planning, shipping and arrival dates cannot be guaranteed. While we endeavor to accommodate your preferred timeline, factors such as weather conditions, the insect’s life cycle, timeline of when the order was placed, availability, region of shipping, staffing considerations and many other variables may impact our ability to meet specific dates.

Payment: We do not facilitate the processing of Credit Cards, Debit Cards, PayPal, Crypto, Cheque, Email Transfers, or other forms of payments listed on our website on your behalf. All payments must be conducted through the service providers specified on our website; our team will not accept payments over the phone or process any payments on your behalf. You are solely responsible for submitting payment information using the secure methods outlined on our website. If you choose to use a cheque or email transfer, these must be initiated by you and cannot be processed by any member of our team.

Shipping Costs: In certain uncommon cases, contingent upon your shipping location and alterations in shipping expenses imposed by courier companies (e.g., fuel surcharge or other additional shipping charges), it may be necessary for us to reach out to you for the collection of extra shipping fees. While this occurrence is infrequent, you will receive an email notification about any such adjustments. Subsequently, you will be provided with an invoice, allowing you to make the payment through the various methods specified on our website.

All orders are subject to shipping based on prevailing weather and seasonal conditions. Shipments are restricted from some time in October to some time in April annually. Due to unfavorable weather conditions, butterfly releases or the preparation of kits are impractical during this period. The scarcity of food sources in the wild, coupled with cold weather, presents a significant risk to the survival of the insects. Additionally, do not raise insects in inclement weather for the same reasons therefore not making them available.

The Caterpillar – Build a Painted Lady Raising Kit is typically available from late April to May, June and August-September. If you select this timeline and weather conditions permit, we will dispatch your order accordingly. Orders are processed in the order received, with priority given to earlier orders. Email notifications will be sent prior to shipping, and if your order is placed later in a given timeline, we will notify you before dispatch.

The selection of “as soon as possible” for an order does not guarantee immediate processing or next-day shipping. Instead, it signifies that once the kits are available, we will expedite shipping based on weather and seasonal constraints. Placing orders well in advance is advisable to ensure timely shipment, considering various variables. Orders are dispatched in accordance with the priority assigned based on payment receipt.

When employing the services of Canada Post, we use Expedited, XpressPost, or Priority shipping. The selected shipping method does not affect the processing speed for dispatching your order. Instead, it determines the timeline for the shipping service used once your order is ready for dispatch.

The Pupa – Build a Monarch Pupa/Kit these are only available for shipping towards late August to September, subject to permit availability. If monarchs are not available, we will offer an alternative insect of equal value, such as the painted lady specie as listed on the product page. Email notifications will be sent before shipping, providing information on the insect species and the scheduled shipping week. Additional information can be located in the detailed breakdown provided on the product page description, specifying the included items.

Butterflies for release availability is typically from May or June to September, contingent on weather and season conditions. No releases are possible from late October to April due to unsuitable weather. While we accept orders for preferred dates, we do not guarantee on-time arrival. Numerous variables, including the insects’ raising period, shipping region, method, preferred arrival date, weather, and season, impact the delivery. Placing orders well in advance is recommended to account for potential delays.

In the event of a shipping delay or non-arrival by the requested date, no credits, replacements, returns, or refunds will be offered. This policy applies to all of our insects and products. In the absence of a specific insect, an alternative will be provided, with notification via email. For further details, please refer to the detailed breakdown provided on the product page description, specifying the included items. Please refer to “Alternative Insects as Listed in Product Description” section in our terms for a thorough review of this information.

Products and Insect Developmental Stages for Order Fulfillment 

These terms govern the procurement of our insect products, outlining the specific stages at which they are dispatched, as explicitly stated in the product titles and product description. 

Preventing Misunderstandings: To avert misunderstandings, customers are strongly urged to thoroughly review both the product description and title, explicitly outlining the developmental stages of the insects in each product.

Important Notes: We offer insects only when available in the stages listed on our website during the specified season. If a particular stage is not indicated on our website, we are unable to offer insects in that stage. The availability of the product is contingent upon what is listed on our website at the time of purchase.

Product Description and Intended Use: The Caterpillar – Build a Painted Lady Butterfly Raising Kit comprises caterpillars (larvae) meticulously prepared for you for subsequent release. It is crucial to emphasize that the caterpillars provided are not butterflies ready for immediate release. For customers seeking butterflies suitable for release, we recommend exploring our Painted Lady Butterflies for Release or Monarch Butterflies for Release, as highlighted by the product titles specifying the insect’s developmental stage.

Monarch Pupa Clarification: The monarch pupa (pupae, chrysalis) included in the Pupa –  Build a Monarch Kit should not be mistaken for cocoons, a term exclusively reserved for moths. The pupae stage of the monarch is distinct from both the caterpillar and butterfly stages, clearly indicated in the product title. It is imperative to diligently peruse the product description and title of each item to avoid any confusion regarding the developmental stages of the insects. The pupa is intended solely for hatching and subsequent release. For customers seeking butterflies suitable for release, we recommend exploring our Painted Lady Butterflies for Release or Monarch Butterflies for Release, as specified by the product titles indicating the insect’s developmental stage. Please review the product description to see the available alternatives for monarch pupae, which are the painted lady species for the same value.

Butterflies For Release: We offer when available Painted Lady Butterflies for Release and Monarch Butterflies for Release. As evident from the product names, you will receive the insects in the butterfly stage, not as eggs, larvae, caterpillars, or pupae. If you are in search of insects in alternative developmental stages, we encourage exploring our other products tailored to those specific phases.

Milkweed Seeds: Milkweed seeds are available for free, and you only need to cover the shipping cost. Optionally, you can choose to add a tracking number for an extra fee. If we run out of stock for milkweed seeds we will ship them as soon as they become available. If the free milkweed seeds are not in stock at the time of your order, when bundled with other products like a butterfly kit, butterflies for release, net cage, etc., the complimentary seeds will not be part of your purchase. Unfortunately, we cannot provide credit, refund, or replacement for the absence of free seeds, as they are complimentary. If you specifically want milkweed seeds when they are back in stock, you can place a separate online order for that item. Once the seeds are available, we will promptly ship them to you. Please note that during peak seasons, such as our butterfly kits’ high demand, we may out stock of free seeds based on the shipping timeline. At such times, we cannot include free seeds in your order, and you may need to place a separate order when they are in stock again.

Pupa – Build a Monarch Kit includes: 1 monarch pupa per order (a minimum of 5) or for each monarch pupa 5 painted lady caterpillars in cups with their food in larvae stage to raise/hatch and release the butterflies as clearly indicated in the product description. You will be notified via email which insect prior to shipping. Basic instructions with a QR code for detailed and breed-specific instructions along with our blog that has continually increasing information. An Indigenous poem to be read at the time of the butterfly release. Optional Small or Large Mesh Cage. The amounts  of insects and items listed will vary depending on the quantiles you choose on the ordering page. We begin shipping these kits from late August until September each year, weather and season permitting. Prior to shipping your order we will notify you via email.

The Caterpillar – Build A Painted Lady Butterfly Raising Kit includes: Complete diet protocol for raising from caterpillar to butterfly (10 cups of single or 2 cups of minimum of 5) A special note from the MonarchButterflies.ca team. Basic instructions with a QR code for detailed and breed-specific instructions along with our blog that has continually increasing information. An Indigenous poem to be read at the time of the butterfly release. Caterpillar Cleaning / Hygiene Brush (to remove frass and webbing. Optional Small or Large Mesh Cage. The amount of insects and items listed will vary depending on the quantiles you choose on the ordering page. The cost of $3.79 applies to each caterpillar. For instance, if you purchase the minimum quantity of 10 caterpillars, the total price will be $3.79 x 10. This would yield 10 caterpillars arranged either in 2 cups of 5 caterpillars each or 10 individual cups, depending on your selection. 

Alternative Insects as Listed in Product Description

In light of recent amendments to regulatory frameworks, there exists a potential constraint on our ability to provide monarchs in the year 2025, owing to modifications in the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c. 41 (ontario.ca). We are actively involved in the permit application process, and contingent upon approval, to possibly fulfill your order with monarchs as stipulated. However, should the acquisition of monarchs prove unattainable, we are committed to providing you the Painted Lady Specie for the same value as listed in the product description. In such instances, we shall provide the painted lady specie, ensuring that the substitution maintains an equivalent value to the originally requested monarchs. We appreciate your comprehension and cooperation in this matter. In the event that we are unable to fulfill your monarch order for any reason, painted ladies will be dispatched for the equivalent value of your order as clearly described on the ordering page. Notification of any such will be conveyed through email prior to the shipment of your order. Kindly consult the product description for comprehensive details regarding the alternative in the event that we are unable to fulfill your order with Monarchs. This information is expressly provided therein to uphold clarity and transparency in our communication with you. You can find these details in the terms that you have explicitly agreed to, as well as in our communication via email, and the product description maintaining a commitment to clarity and transparency.

*Guarantee of Livestock

We assure that, at the time of packaging and pickup by the shipping company, your insects are living, healthy specimens, meticulously packaged to ensure safe arrival. However, given their nature as living organisms, certain unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control may arise, including shipping delays, lost shipments, damaged parcels, or perished insects.

Upon receipt of your shipment, it is imperative to carefully open and inspect the contents. In the event of any issues, promptly capture clear photographic evidence and contact us without delay, utilizing our claims form available at www.monarchbutterflies.ca/claims. For concerns related to perished insects, clear images from all angles and details must be submitted as per the information on the claims page, necessitating contact on the arrival date for proper resolution.

We do not undertake the replacement of insects unless they fail to arrive as living specimens on the designated arrival date when you have selected the option that includes the guarantee of livestock. In the improbable event of an issue, immediate contact must be established on the same business day of order receipt and inspection. Contact initiated after the intended arrival date as indicated on the claims page, absence of provided clear pictures, or submission of unclear images renders the guarantee of livestock null and void. It is imperative to select the guarantee of livestock option, subject to the applicable terms. In the event that the guarantee of livestock is not selected, you are ineligible for a refund, credit, or replacement for orders that are selected to be shipped with, guarantee of livestock is not included.

Notably, Canada Post and other courier services do not extend coverage for perishable items under their postal insurance. Our guarantee of livestock specifically pertains to ensuring the delivery of livestock as intended and exclusively applies to orders selected for shipment with the guarantee of livestock. Orders choosing the option of guarantee of livestock not included do not qualify for replacement, credit, or refund.

To initiate the processing of requests for replacement, credit, or refund, it is essential to establish immediate contact and provide time-stamped clear photos. The guarantee of livestock is rendered void in the event of shipping delays and as otherwise listed attributable to the courier company, with the customer assuming full liability for any such delays.

Various factors impact the complete metamorphosis of a butterfly, precluding the guarantee of successful emergence for each pupa (chrysalis). Adhering to the complete set of instructions, which includes written guidance, video instructions, information from our FAQ Page, and content from our Online Blog, is crucial. In the event of complications post-shipment, prompt contact is encouraged for troubleshooting, allowing us to identify and address potential issues.

Clear photographs are an essential component of the communication process when contacting our team to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand. Should no clear photos be submitted on the intended arrival date pertaining to your claim, the claim will be dismissed. Irrespective of the nature of the issue encountered, whether it involves a damaged parcel or concerns with the metamorphosis process, clear photographic evidence is imperative for verification and accurate resolution of the matter.

Any claims reporting issues one day after the designated arrival date of your package or subsequently will not qualify for a refund, credit, or replacement. Nevertheless, if necessary our team will extend assistance in troubleshooting the reported issue.

If your package is delivered and left in a locker, failure to contact us within 30 minutes of its arrival regarding any perished insects will result in the voidance of your guarantee of livestock. This is emphasized as prolonged storage in a locker may lead to the demise of the insects.

Similarly, if a package is left at an unattended location, such as the front door, side door, safe drop, concierge, garage, porch, or any place not directly received by you, and we are not notified within 30 minutes of its arrival regarding any perished insects, your guarantee of livestock is void. Clear images must be provided along describing your concerns. This is attributed to factors like direct sunlight that may contribute to the insects perishing during an extended period of unattended storage.

In cases where an incorrect or incomplete address is provided, resulting in a shipping delay, your guarantee of livestock is voided due to the impact of the shipping delay.

Upon hatching from the egg, the caterpillar undergoes rapid growth, reaching a size slightly exceeding a few millimeters. In the unfortunate event of a caterpillar’s demise, desiccation occurs, rendering it inconspicuous and potentially appearing as a minute speck or black dot. The perceived size fluctuates based on the time elapsed since the insect’s expiration, possibly giving the impression of absence. Thorough packaging practices are implemented in the preparation of your order to ensure inclusion of the minimum required quantity, with additional specimens included based on availability. In instances where insects may appear elusive or indiscernible, clear images are imperative for a comprehensive review of your claim.

The process of introducing artificial diet into the cups involves initially dispensing a boiling hot liquid that solidifies into a paste. In rare instances, caterpillars may inadvertently position themselves at the sides or bottom of the cup, potentially resulting in their demise. While such occurrences are infrequent, our staff is unable to control the precise positioning of the insect within the cup before pouring the scalding liquid. The cup is initially prepared, with caterpillars delicately placed on top after the liquid solidifies. Should issues arise concerning misplaced or missing insects, clear images submitted through our claims form, encompassing all angles, are crucial for a comprehensive claim assessment. Non-compliance with the obligation to provide clear images may result in a delay or outright voidance of your guarantee of livestock, particularly if not submitted within the stipulated timeline.

Cautionary Guidelines

The utilization of plants or other vegetation within your enclosure is not recommended, and any such usage is undertaken at your own risk. However, if you choose to incorporate plants for feeding your insects, exercise caution by ensuring the selected source is free from pesticides chemicals and other insects. If opting to use your milkweed, it is done so entirely at your own risk. We cannot guarantee the absence of pesticides or chemicals in your milkweed. Thoroughly inspect the plants for potential presence of spiders, ants, or other predators.

For the rearing container, it is imperative to maintain cleanliness. If previously used to clean the rearing container (net cage), soak it in a 10% bleach solution for ten minutes, followed by thorough rinsing. If feasible, expose it to sunlight for six hours to facilitate drying; alternatively, allow it to air-dry completely.

Handling caterpillars with your hands is strongly discouraged, and any such action is undertaken at your own risk. This practice poses the potential risk of transmitting deadly bacteria and toxic oils. It is imperative to note that while certain scientific curricula may necessitate experimental activities involving caterpillars, such actions are executed at YOUR OWN RISK, with implications for the health and well-being of the insects.

Caterpillars and pupae must be confined within sealed rearing containers to mitigate exposure to external elements that could introduce potential predators to the rearing environment. The prosperous rearing of caterpillars is contingent upon the meticulous maintenance of optimal temperature and humidity levels, with ideal conditions ranging between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels set at 40-50%. Leaving caterpillars unattended, especially in an environment with lowered thermostats over the weekend, poses risks to the health and well-being of the larvae. This cautionary directive extends to all locations where the insects are housed, emphasizing that they should not be left unattended for periods exceeding 24 hours.

The successful development of butterflies can be impeded by the prevailing climate and environmental conditions in their rearing habitat. Prior to handling your shipment and on each instance of interaction with your livestock, it is imperative to thoroughly wash your hands. For those with pets, it is recommended to use gloves as an additional precautionary measure. Further insights on best practices for raising butterflies can be found on our Online Blog, providing comprehensive information for your reference.

Exercise caution against leaving caterpillars unattended for extended durations, especially over weekends or multiple days. Regular and thorough monitoring throughout the day is essential to ensure their active growth and consumption of the provided artificial diet.

Under no circumstances should cleaning sprays or solutions be utilized in close proximity to your rearing containers. Certain sprays have the potential to infiltrate ventilation systems, causing undue stress to your insects. It is crucial to maintain cleanliness within the rearing container by promptly removing frass as recommended in the provided instructions.

In the event of any issues observed with your caterpillars or pupae, document the concern through photographic evidence and segregate the affected specimen by placing it in a separate rearing container, thereby isolating it from the other healthy specimens. It is imperative to consistently remove any sick or deceased insects.

Upon the pupation of your caterpillars, eliminate residual food and frass from the rearing container. Follow the recommended instructions to hydrate the pupae, utilizing a water bottle for spritzing. All rearing containers should be situated away from direct sunlight and vents.

Warranties Disclaimer

Content Accuracy and Changes: The content presented on this Website is compiled from various sources and is subject to modification without prior notice, encompassing any alterations to products, programs, offerings, or technical information described herein. Monarch Butterflies™ makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, regarding the completeness, quality, or adequacy of the Website, its content, or the suitability, functionality, or operation of the Website or its content. Users of this Website acknowledge and assume the inherent risk that its contents may be inaccurate, incomplete, offensive, or fail to meet individual needs and requirements.

Disclaimer of Warranties: Monarch Butterflies™ expressly disclaims all warranties, whether express or implied, including but not limited to the warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement concerning these web pages and content. Under no circumstances shall Monarch Butterflies™ be liable for any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, even if the company has been advised of the possibility of such damages.

Third-Party Products and Services: Any warranty provided in connection with products and services described on this Website is the sole responsibility of the advertiser or manufacturer, and not Monarch Butterflies™. The references and descriptions of products or services within the Website materials are presented “as is” without any warranty, either express or implied. Monarch Butterflies™ is not liable for any damages, including consequential damages, arising from the use of materials on this Website or the products or services described herein.

Responsibility of Advertisers: The descriptions of, and references to, products, services, and companies on this Website are the sole responsibility of the companies providing the information (referred to as “advertisers”) and not Monarch Butterflies™. Inclusion of material on this server does not imply endorsement by Monarch Butterflies™, and no warranty of any kind is made concerning the subject matter of the server materials advertised.

Integrity and Accuracy of Server Materials: While Monarch Butterflies™ endeavors to ensure the integrity and accuracy of server materials, it does not guarantee their correctness or accuracy. The server materials may include inaccuracies or errors, and unauthorized additions, deletions, and alterations may be made by third parties. Users are advised to verify any representation made in the server materials with the advertiser of the product or service to ensure accuracy before reliance.

Indemnification

You are responsible for any loss or damage arising from your use of www.monarchbutterflies.ca, its content, or any of its services. You agree to defend, indemnify, and hold Monarch Butterflies and its respective officers, directors, employees, agents, and representatives harmless from any and all claims, demands, damages (including incidental and consequential damages), liabilities, costs, expenses, suits, and judgments, including legal fees, related to:

Your violation of any of these terms: Your activities conducted in connection with www.monarchbutterflies.ca, its content, or any of its services. Your failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations regarding www.monarchbutterflies.ca, its content, or any of its services. Monarch Butterflies’ provision of data and information to you, including any errors in the information or any unavailable or incomplete information. Authorized or unauthorized uses of www.monarchbutterflies.ca, its content, or any of its services by you or on your behalf, directly or indirectly. This includes claims related to shipment reroutes or thefts, breach of privacy, and other similar matters. Your failure to implement adequate internal security measures to safeguard your login ID, password, or any other data or information provided by www.monarchbutterflies.ca (or any portion thereof) and its confidentiality.

Governing Law
In the event of litigation, both parties agree that the Law of the Province of business registration of Monarch Butterflies shall apply and both parties shall consent to the jurisdiction of said Province’s courts, or in the event of diversity of citizenship, the Canada District Court for Ontario. Both parties expressly waive a trial by jury.

Announcements and Email Communications

You are prohibited from issuing any press release or announcement without obtaining the prior written consent from Monarch Butterflies. Such consent must be secured before the specific text of the press release or announcement is reviewed and approved by Monarch Butterflies. Additionally, you acknowledge and agree that Monarch Butterflies reserves the right to use the email address(es) provided during enrollment on www.monarchbutterflies.ca as updated, to communicate with you regarding its content, and the services offered. The email that we use are info@monarchbutterflies.ca and noreply@monarchbutterflies.ca please ensure to add us to your contact to ensure you receive all of our communication. When utilizing email addresses associated with specific organizations, like schools or other entities, there is a possibility that our emails might be blocked due to your settings. If this occurs, please reach out to us using an alternative email address that does not have these restrictions. This will enable us to ensure the smooth forwarding of all your communications. Should you wish to update your email address or any other details, kindly inform us via email. Your order profile information will remain unchanged unless a change request is submitted. Please ensure that all communications are directed to info@monarchbutterflies.ca, as emails originating from noreply@monarchbutterflies.ca are automated and that inbox is not monitored. Any correspondence sent to noreply@monarchbutterflies.ca will be missed as the inbox is not subject to monitoring, thereby significantly increasing the probability of non-acknowledgment.

Return/Refund Policy

Customers may acquire merchandise from this Website using any of the payment options detailed in the Payment section. Monarch Butterflies™ retains the prerogative to modify its payment procedures at its discretion, without providing prior notice. Due to the delicate nature of livestock items, specifically bred to order, such as caterpillars, pupas and butterflies they are non-returnable, non-cancelable, and non-refundable.

Cancellation of orders is only permissible within the initial 72 hours from the time of order placement to qualify for a refund, in the event that an order has undergone processing within this stipulated period, it may no longer be eligible for a refund or cancellation. Beyond this period, cancellations and refunds are not accommodated. In certain situations, in-store credit may be offered, excluding shipping and handling costs. Monarch Butterflies™ explicitly does not cover shipping and handling costs for replacement orders, notwithstanding the standard $100.00 postal insurance provided by Canada Post.

For all canceled orders, a 5% processing fee is levied by online service providers (such as VISA, Debit, PayPal or other service providers). This processing fee, despite refunding the order, is non-refundable and includes various website program and processing fees. Additionally, an administration fee of 5% is imposed, resulting in a cumulative fee of up to 10%. In some instances, orders are non-refundable, and refunds are not available. This applies to all of our products/insects listed throughout our website. Alternatively, a 50% refund may be granted in specific cases, Alternatively, a 50% refund may be granted in specific cases, subject to the discretion of Monarch Butterflies™. In certain exceptions, a refund may be attainable upon returning the entire product in its original packaging. Following arrival and inspection, a 50% refund may be initiated, subject to the discretion of Monarch Butterflies™. Once the product has been shipped to us please provide us a tracking number and our team will keep you updated upon its arrival.

Claims Process

If you find it necessary to submit a claim , please visit: www.monarchbutterflies.ca/claims

The claims process is strictly processed in accordance with the terms and conditions, shipping policy, privacy policy, including the section guarantee of livestock collectively refereed to as terms. All claims shall be processed in accordance with the information explicitly stated in these terms . This information is readily accessible on our website, on your order invoice, must be expressly agreed upon to proceed with an order, and reaffirmed when filing an online claim. By placing an order with us, you explicitly agreed to adhere to and be bound by these terms for the claims process. Should you disagree with any aspect of these terms governing the claims process, we advise against placing an order, as all claims will be processed strictly in accordance with the full terms. You must keep all original content regardless in the state it arrives in including the shipping box for our specialists to review. In the event any content is missing from the content within or the shipping box we may not be able to process your claim. Please ensure to submit images of all content so that our claims team is able to review your concerns throughly and assist you based on the information you have provided, as we cannot process claims for items that have been discarded or images are not submitted for any reason.

All claims related to perished insects must be initiated within 24 hours from the intended arrival date. Claims concerning damaged contents must be initiated within 48 hours, and claims for missing content must be initiated within 7 days. On the claims form, it is requisite to provide a comprehensive written description delineating the condition of the insects upon arrival. The submission must also include the order number, date of order receipt, first name, last name, optional phone number, order number, shipping method, tracking number, shipping method selected, and additional information as specified on the claims form.

Upon the arrival of your package, should the insects perish during transport, it is imperative to promptly initiate the claim on the very day of arrival. To file a claim, it is mandatory to provide clear photographic evidence of each impacted insect on the intended arrival date. In the unlikely scenario where the integrity of the entire package is in question, it is necessary to furnish individual clear images of each affected insect, along with a clear collective image depicting all affected insects together.

If you have selected the guarantee of livestock (terms apply)*, it is imperative to initiate contact with us on the intended arrival date, accompanied by relevant images for perished insects. Any delay in this notification process will result in the denial of the claim. Given the inherent nature of the product and service provided, filing the claim on the intended arrival date is crucial, and failure to do so will render the warranty void. The guarantee of livestock will be voided if concerns are communicated via email without accompanying clear images or if the claim is not filed within the stipulated timeline as defined in these terms. Furthermore, it is emphasized that if the information conveyed via email does not substantiate the claim or lacks essential details, we will be unable to process the claim, and it shall be summarily denied. Due to the inability to verify the raising conditions subsequent to the arrival date, claims can only be reviewed if submitted on the same day of arrival. In the natural environment, butterflies exhibit a survival rate of 1 in 100 eggs laid, whereas in captivity, the survival rate is significantly higher.

Due to the sensitivity of the product, you must follow the above guidelines in submitting your claim. Canada Post or other courier services do not guarantee perishable items under their postal insurance; this is our guarantee of livestock providing you with the livestock as intended and applies only to order that are selected to be shipped with the guarantee of livestock. Orders that are selected to be shipped without the guarantee of livestock are not eligible for a replacement, credit or refund.

Upon reception of your claim through our designated online portal, a specialist within our team will evaluate the claim. Upon validation of successful claims, we shall initiate contact with you via email to present the following options. In instances where the insects have perished on the day of arrival, the subsequent alternatives shall be offered subsequent to the processing of the claim:

Refund: We will reimburse you for the perished insect or insects.
Credit: We will issue a credit equivalent to your claim amount, applicable on your subsequent order. Notably, this credit will remain valid indefinitely.
Replacement and Reshipment: We will arrange for the insects to be replaced and reshipped, with the exclusion of shipping costs. It is essential to acknowledge that this option is contingent upon seasonal conditions, weather considerations, and product availability.

While you may to submit clear images and information related to your claim via email, it is essential to note that the formal submission must take place through our designated online portal. It is imperative to include all the required information during this online submission to facilitate a thorough review and efficient processing of your claim by our specialists. By agreeing to this process, you commit to providing the necessary information, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate assessment of your claim. If our specialists require additional information or notice any missing details, they will promptly reach out to you, requesting the necessary information. It is crucial to respond within the specified timeline from the arrival date to avoid the potential nullification of your guarantee due to non-compliance in providing the required information. In the event that we are contacted via email concerning your claim, it is plausible that the claim may be denied if the requisite information necessary for processing an online claim is absent. Should you choose to communicate with our team via email to initiate a claim, you will be redirected to our designated online claims page, where you are required to formally submit the claim through our online portal.

Submission of Clear Images: When submitting images for an online claim, it is imperative that the images are clear and effectively articulate the nature of your concern. Claims with unclear images cannot be processed. 

In the case of damage to an item, please ensure that the extent of the damage is clearly indicated in the image along with a detailed description. In situations where an item is missing, provide clear images indicating the absence of the specified item, by submitting a clear photograph depicting the shipping box and its condition upon being opened. In the event of the demise of an insect, clearly depict in your image that the caterpillar appears perished.

We will process the claim in accordance with the images and descriptions outlined in the terms available on our website and as specified on your order invoice which were agreed to by you when placing the order. Ensure that your claim submission contains accurate and detailed content, clearly articulating your concerns along with a comprehensive description. It is important to note that we may request additional content within a specified time limit to facilitate the timely resolution of your concern in accordance with the stipulated timeline outlined in the terms.

Our claims processing is contingent upon the clarity of images and the adequacy of claim information that explicitly illustrate the concerns you are describing. To facilitate a comprehensive review, ensure that all submitted images are clear, and we encourage you to submit as many images as possible. Following the initial claim submission, you also have the option to supplement your claim with additional images by emailing us at info@monarchbutterflies.ca.

If you choose to exclude livestock from the guarantee when placing an order, any claim associated with perished insects becomes ineligible for processing. The incapacity to process such a claim is directly linked to the non-selection of the guarantee of livestock, and we are consequently precluded from process claims for perished insects based on your selected shipping method. Nevertheless, for guidance, insights, and troubleshooting of concerns, you may contact our team at info@monarchbutterflies.ca.

Claims against Canada Post for Damaged or Lost Packages: All orders are accompanied by standard $100.00 postal insurance provided by Canada Post. For comprehensive details on the terms of postal insurance, subject to potential modifications by Canada Post, please refer to their terms and conditions available on the Canada Post website, www.canadapost-postescanada.ca. This insurance coverage can be invoked in the event of physical damage or loss of the package during transit.

Should there be a necessity to file a claim, please reach out to us with accompanying photos (in cases of damage) and a detailed description, allowing us to initiate the claim on your behalf. The submission of photos (where applicable) and comprehensive descriptions is imperative for any claim instituted against Canada Post. Upon filing the claim, we will provide you with your claim number via email, enabling you to communicate with Canada Post either through email or their toll-free number at 1-800-267-7651 for updates. Subsequent to receiving any updates from Canada Post, we shall relay the information to you via email.

For the successful progression of your claim, it is imperative that you respond promptly to all communication, whether calls or emails, initiated by Canada Post or other courier service providers. Following the successful processing of the claim, we will notify you through email. However, in the event of a courier-induced delay, you acknowledge full liability, and our guarantee of livestock is rendered void.

Accuracy of Claims

You acknowledge and agree to submit accurate and legitimate claims through our designated website claims page. Any submission of false claims may be construed as an attempt to fabricate a claim and may be subject fraud with legal processing accordingly.

Legal Consequences of False Claims: Any content associated with false claims may be utilized as evidence in the pursuit of legal action for falsified claims. This legal action may include, but is not limited to, civil and criminal proceedings.

By engaging in the claims process on our website, you expressly consent to these terms. Failure to adhere to these terms may result in the rejection of your claim and may initiate legal actions as deemed necessary.

Payments:

We accept payments via various methods as outlined on our website, including Visa, Debit, Mastercard, Email Transfers, Cheque, Crypto, with payment processors such as PayPal, Stripe and any other options available during the checkout process. Additionally, we accommodate direct deposits to our bank account upon request. To avoid complications, please refrain from submitting multiple orders that may result in duplicate payments. In the event of a payment error, denial, or if an order does not appear to have processed successfully, please refrain from placing a new order or resubmitting payment through the payment processing page. Instead, promptly contact our team via email at info@monarchbutterflies.ca to address and resolve the issue. In the event of such occurrences, a payment may be processed. If you wish to seek a refund or cancellation for these instances, our refund and cancellation policies will apply.

Non-Payment and Collections

In the exceptional circumstance that your order has been prepared or dispatched, and there arises an issue with payment receipt, encompassing instances such as incomplete payment transactions, payment reversals, NSF (Non-Sufficient Funds), etc., an initial contact will be made via email to apprise you of the payment discrepancy. Should payment not be remitted within the stipulated timeframe or if no response is received, your invoice will be referred to a collections agency. In the event of communication from the collections agency, it is imperative to adhere to all instructions for the expeditious settlement of payment.

It is crucial to acknowledge that all payments facilitated through the collections process will incur supplementary charges, including collection fees, administrative fees, NSF and bank charges, interest charges, and any other costs associated with the retrieval of payment. In instances where payment resolution remains outstanding, we reserve the right to report all delinquent accounts to credit reporting agencies such as Equifax, Transunion, and others. Once an account has been forwarded to collections, resolution for the invoiced amount is no longer feasible. Successful payment completion will culminate in the closure of any outstanding account.

Delays

All shipments of butterflies, pupae, or caterpillars are contingent upon weather and seasonal conditions. An estimated shipping date is provided on the ordering page under the Shipping Time; however, if inclement weather impedes timely or safe delivery, we reserve the right to defer the order until conditions permit. For inquiries regarding the status of your order, kindly communicate with us via email. It is important to note that precise shipping dates cannot be guaranteed due to various factors contributing to potential delays. We appreciate your patience as we endeavor to dispatch orders at the earliest opportunity.

For orders requiring butterflies for release or butterfly kits with a preferred delivery date, it is mandatory to select Priority shipping with the guarantee of livestock during the checkout process on our website. Opting for alternative shipping options, such as Expedited or XpressPost Shipping without or with the guarantee of livestock, may result in extended shipping durations and is not recommended. By opting for these alternatives, it is acknowledged by you that there is an inherent risk of additional delays in the arrival of your order, attributable to the extended shipping duration associated with these options.

Packaging/Unpacking

Your order will be dispatched in an eco-friendly corrugated box filled which may be filled with recycled paper to keep the contents snug and to prevent movement during shipping. The box will be sealed with tape both at the bottom and the top of the shipping box. A shipping label, featuring your address, relevant information, and the tracking number, will be affixed to the top of the shipping box.

For orders involving butterflies intended for release, the corrugated box or foam box will include an insulated container or corrugated box nestled within. This insulated container will house ice packs to maintain a cool and dormant state for the butterflies during transit. Within the insulated container, you may find an additional corrugated box. Inside this box, envelopes containing your butterflies will be arranged. In certain instances, if required, recycled paper will be used to fill the corrugated box housing your butterflies to ensure a snug fit and prevent movement. Depending on the shipping duration of your butterflies, the ice packs may have thawed out. To ensure the proper handling and care of your butterflies, please refer to the instructions available on our website’s online blog, or the included instructions in the package, or the ones provided in emails sent to you. These instructions can also be found on the ordering page under “Helpful Links”

Depending on the notice provided with your order for butterflies for release and on how well in advance it is placed and paid for, we aim to ship your order in advance if possible. Generally, we only ship orders on Monday or the next business day, as we are unable to ship during holidays and weekends. The butterflies generally arrive in a single envelope for release or one glassine envelope containing two butterflies. Based on the notice provided and availability, we generally aim to fulfill all orders with one butterfly per envelope for safe shipping.

For all butterfly orders, we recommend selecting Priority shipping for the shortest shipping timeline. Alternatively, you can choose XpressPost shipping and select the guarantee of livestock. Choosing any other shipping option may result in lengthy transit times, and without the guarantee of livestock, although uncommon, the insects may perish, and we are unable to offer credit, refunds, or replacements. We urge you to select the quickest shipping duration possible for the safe and prompt arrival of your butterflies.

Once your butterflies arrive, within 48 hour of shipping from any of our locations, we recommend releasing them in an enclosure and feeding them. These instructions are part of the release process and care guidelines to ensure the well-being of your butterflies. Please note that this may result in a mass release of butterflies. While we aim to accommodate individual releases, this is not always possible due to feeding requirements, shipping duration, schedules, methods selected, order placement timing and other variables. If you require a single release, please email our team well in advance at info@monarchbutterflies.ca to see if we can accommodate your specific request.

For mass releases, we are unable to ship all butterflies in one release container, as they must be packaged in glassine or envelopes for safe transport. Upon arrival your butterflies can be transferred to a mass release enclosure/net cage.  We recommend that all orders should be placed with a net cage/enclosure. Although optional, we suggest selecting a net cage for every order as a requirement. For more information, visit our website, ordering page, blog post, helpful links, terms, and more.

The exterior of the shipping box may not feature indicators for orientation, fragility, temperature, or if live insects are present. Our courier partners are informed about the package contents and handle them accordingly, based that an agreement is required for the shipment and handling of live insects. The courier company recognizes that the side where the shipping label is placed should be oriented upwards.

Your caterpillars will be delivered in plastic containers, which can be recycled or reused after their intended use. The net cage may come with recyclable plastic packaging. Any pamphlets, instructions, or poems included in the order can also be recycled if you choose. Occasionally, pamphlets may be folded to fit them within the shipping box. The hygiene brush and net cage are designed for re-use, catering to your future insect-related needs. The ice packs can be reused or disposed of accordingly.

While packaging, your insects are positioned upright and surrounded by materials like paper filler to ensure a secure fit. When unpacking and removing the filler, the contents inside may shift, fall, or no longer remain upright. Please be aware that this may occur, and as you unpack, ensure to place all insects in an upright position, with the lid on top. In the event that the lid is loose or comes undone, please place the lid on the container with the insect inside and close it.

We advise against opening your package in the presence of children or individuals who may be affected by damaged contents or, in rare cases, deceased insects. Various factors can contribute to these rare occurrences, and to prevent any potential impact on someone unable to handle such situations, the package should be opened by an adult as appropriate.

Occasionally, the packaging may vary, and alternative materials such as different fillers or Styrofoam boxes might be used as an insulated container, depending on the availability of shipping materials. Our commitment is to predominantly utilize eco-friendly or reusable shipping materials to contribute to environmental conservation. We encourage you to responsibly recycle, reuse, or dispose of all packaging materials. Make sure to remove any tape for the proper recycling of all recyclable materials and dispose of them accordingly.

Use of Artificial Intelligence and Technology for Efficient Services

Artificial Intelligence and Technology: Our company uses artificial intelligence and advanced technological tools to enhance and streamline the services we offer. These technologies are designed to provide efficient and effective solutions to our users.

Accuracy of Information: While using artificial intelligence systems strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is important to note that technical errors may occur. As a result, some information presented through our services may not be entirely accurate.

User Responsibility: Users are advised to exercise discretion and independently verify critical information when relying on data provided by our artificial intelligence systems. Our company shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or errors in the information presented due to technical glitches. Please email our team if you would like to confirm and information or seek clarification. 

Continuous Improvement: We are committed to ongoing improvement and refinement of our artificial intelligence systems to minimize errors and enhance accuracy. Users are encouraged to report any identified issues to aid in our efforts to continually enhance our services.

Data Privacy and Security: The use of artificial intelligence involves the processing of data, emails and more. Our company adheres to stringent privacy and security measures to safeguard user data. For more details, please refer to our Privacy Policy.

Limitation of Liability: Our company shall not be held responsible for any direct or indirect damages arising from the use or reliance on information provided by artificial intelligence systems. Users acknowledge that technical errors are inherent in such systems, and they use the services at their own risk

Toll-Free Number
During peak season, we are unable to accept calls and our toll-free number will direct you to email us for the most prompt responses. Although we wish to be able to accept all calls, our team may be packaging orders and preparing insects. Please email our team at info@monarchbutterflies.ca for prompt responses. To facilitate modifications, inquiries, and order placements, we recommend using our online platform directly accessible on our website. Our primary mode of communication is through email, enabling efficient record-keeping to maintain comprehensive documentation of any changes made and ensuring the availability of information for your reference. This communication process extends to all claims, requiring online submission with the necessary information. While we offer a toll-free number for informational purposes, please note that it is not intended for order resolution or requests for alterations such as address changes, shipping timelines, and other modifications.

Miscellaneous
The Terms constitute the entire agreement between you and Monarch Butterflies™ concerning this Website. The terms supersede all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether electronic, oral or written between you and Monarch Butterflies concerning this Website. No modification of the Terms shall be effective unless it is authorized by Monarch Butterflies™. If any provision of the Terms is found to be contrary to law, then such provision(s) shall be constructed in a manner to closely reflect, as much as possible, the intentions of the parties, with the other provisions remaining in full force and effect.

VOID WHERE PROHIBITED: Although the information on this Website is accessible worldwide, not all products or services discussed on this Website are available to all persons or in all geographic locations or jurisdictions. Monarch Butterflies™ and the advertisers each reserve the right to limit the provision of their products or services to any person, geographic area, or jurisdiction they so desire or not permitted and to limit the quantities of any products or services that they provide. Any offer for any product or service made in the materials on this Website is void where prohibited.$3.70