* It grows and develops: Butterflies go through a complete metamorphosis, changing from a caterpillar to a chrysalis and finally into a beautiful butterfly.

* It reproduces: Butterflies lay eggs that hatch into caterpillars, continuing the life cycle.

* It needs energy: Butterflies eat nectar from flowers to fuel their activities.

* It responds to its environment: Butterflies react to changes in temperature, light, and the presence of predators.

* It is made up of cells: Like all living things, butterflies are composed of cells.

These are just some of the characteristics that define something as living.