You can, but butterflies are more likely to hover around a feeder that is designed to attract them, keep out pests, and contain the foods they like best. Most standard dishes or bowls are too deep and don’t have enough perching space for butterflies to land while they feed. Plus, if you place the dish on the ground, it can be hidden in the greenery and difficult to see. Hanging feeders with ports are made with butterflies in mind. Additionally, bowl-style feeders are shallow and have splayed edges for perching. And whether feeders are made to be hung from a tree or attached to a stake, they can be placed at eye level, which makes them easy to see and enjoy.