Passion for butterflies emerges from cocoons

For anyone attempting to identify a butterfly spotted anywhere in the country, Sun Wenhao is a name that stands out prominently.

Those seeking a comprehensive reference can turn to Living Butterflies in China (in three volumes), co-authored by Sun. This extensive handbook, featuring photographs and detailed descriptions of over 2,100 species, is one of the most thorough resources on butterflies distributed across the nation.

For those who prefer digital tools, Sun has also developed an artificial intelligence-powered identification app called "Wenhao's Butterfly Identifier". This innovative mini application has become a go-to resource for users eager to identify butterfly species with ease and accuracy.

From the grassy edges of city parks to the lofty alpine slopes of Qinghai province, Sun, 35, has devoted his life to photographing, identifying, and understanding China's butterfly species. His efforts have woven a rich tapestry of ecological observations gathered from diverse online sources. The success of his book and the widespread use of his app among butterfly enthusiasts across China illustrate the remarkable heights that passion and dedication can achieve.