Where can I find Smotherwing Butterflies in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild?

Smotherwing Butterflies are a rare and valuable resource in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, primarily used for crafting elixirs that grant stealth-related effects. These butterflies are essential for players who want to enhance their stealth capabilities, making it easier to sneak past enemies, collect resources without being noticed, or complete stealth-based quests. Finding Smotherwing Butterflies requires a combination of knowledge about their habitat, timing, and the right tools to catch them effectively.

Smotherwing Butterflies are typically found in areas with high humidity or near bodies of water, such as the Faron region. One of the best locations to find them is around the Lakeside Stable, which is situated near Lake Floria. The butterflies are most active during the day, so it is recommended to search for them between morning and early evening. They are often found fluttering near grassy areas or around trees, so players should keep an eye out for their distinctive appearance, which includes a mix of red and black colors.

To catch Smotherwing Butterflies, players need to approach them quietly. Wearing stealth-enhancing armor, such as the Stealth Set, can significantly increase the chances of successfully catching them without scaring them away. The Stealth Set can be purchased from the clothing shop in Kakariko Village, and upgrading it at Great Fairy Fountains will further improve its stealth capabilities. Additionally, consuming food or elixirs that boost stealth can also help in getting closer to the butterflies without alerting them.

One effective strategy is to crouch and move slowly towards the butterflies. This reduces the noise Link makes, making it less likely for the butterflies to fly away. Players can also use the Sheikah Sensor+ to track Smotherwing Butterflies if they have registered them in the Hyrule Compendium. This tool is particularly useful for locating specific resources and can save time when searching for rare items like Smotherwing Butterflies.

Another important consideration is the weather. Smotherwing Butterflies are less likely to appear during rain or storms, so it is best to search for them on clear days. If the weather is unfavorable, players can rest at a campfire or wait at a stable until the weather clears. This ensures that the conditions are optimal for finding and catching the butterflies.

Common mistakes to avoid include running or making sudden movements near the butterflies, as this will scare them away. Additionally, using weapons or tools that create noise, such as bombs or heavy weapons, should be avoided when trying to catch Smotherwing Butterflies. Players should also be mindful of nearby enemies, as engaging in combat can disrupt the environment and cause the butterflies to disappear.

Advanced techniques for catching Smotherwing Butterflies include using the Paraglider to glide silently towards them from a higher vantage point. This method allows players to cover more ground quickly while maintaining stealth. Another optimization is to use the Stasis rune to freeze the butterflies temporarily, giving players a brief window to catch them before they fly away. However, this requires precise timing and can be challenging to execute.

Preparation is key when hunting for Smotherwing Butterflies. Players should ensure they have enough inventory space to store the butterflies, as they are considered critters and take up space in the Materials section of the inventory. It is also advisable to bring along a few stealth-enhancing elixirs or meals, as these can provide an extra layer of stealth if the Stealth Set is not fully upgraded.

Alternative approaches to obtaining Smotherwing Butterflies include purchasing them from certain merchants, such as Beedle, who can sometimes be found at stables across Hyrule. However, this method is less reliable and more expensive than catching them in the wild. Another option is to trade for them with Kilton, the monster parts merchant, who occasionally offers rare items in exchange for Mon.

In specific scenarios, such as when completing the "Find Kheel" side quest in Lurelin Village, Smotherwing Butterflies are required to craft a stealth elixir. This quest highlights the importance of having a steady supply of these butterflies, as they are essential for progressing through certain parts of the game. Players should prioritize collecting Smotherwing Butterflies early on to avoid delays in quest completion.

In conclusion, finding and catching Smotherwing Butterflies in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild requires a combination of knowledge, preparation, and patience. By understanding their habitat, using stealth-enhancing gear, and employing effective strategies, players can efficiently gather these valuable resources. Avoiding common mistakes and utilizing advanced techniques can further optimize the process, ensuring that players are well-equipped to tackle stealth-related challenges throughout their journey in Hyrule.