Surgery on something so delicate is impressive.
Romy McCloskey is a costume designer in The Woodlands, Texas, and a talented one at that. She does very fine, hand-stitched embroidery, usually inspired by "Game of Thrones'" costumes. Her work requires a keen eye and steady hand.
Another one of her passionate hobbies include caring for Monarch butterflies.
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When one of the butterflies came out of its cocoon with a broken wing, she was interested to see if she could save it. She decided to use her skills to attempt butterfly surgery on the ripped wing. She was ready to work on such a delicate subject with her expertise, as she told BoredPanda.
"This was right up my alley."
She prepared the butterfly surgery room with a towel, wire hanger, contact cement, a toothpick, cotton swab, scissors, tweezers, talc powder, and an extra butterfly wing from a Monarch past.
Next, McCloskey secured the creature, which she was quick to point out doesn't hurt it since there are no pain receptors in butterfly wings.
"Securing the butterfly and cutting the damaged parts away. Don't worry it doesn't hurt them. It's like cutting hair or trimming fingernails."
Her steady hands did the trick, and the little guy got a new wing with McCloskey's surgical technique.
While the black lines didn't match up perfectly, there was still hope that her "little boy" could fly.
After giving the butterfly some homemade nectar, he was strong enough to try and take flight.
And he made it around the yard! The surgical approach was a success!
McCloskey said her goodbyes as the Monarch went on its way with a brand new wing and a longer lease on life.
"With a quick lap around the yard and a little rest on a bush, he was off! A successful surgery and outcome! Bye, little buddy! Good luck!"
Monarch butterflies only live for about five months, and during that time take an incredible migration across North America. Hopefully this guy's new wing carries him on his thousand-mile journey!
What did you think about this incredible surgery? Tell us in the comments below.
Photos by Romy McCloskey via BoredPanda
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