Carnivory in plants has evolved at least six times independently, some examples include the Venus flytrap, pitcher plant, and butterwort. Although many outside of the scientific community usually believe these plants excel in defenses, many of these plants have evolved in poor nutrient soil. In order to get sufficient nutrients in these conditions they must use an alternative method. They use insects and small birds as a way to gain the minerals they need through carnivory. Carnivorous plants do not use carnivory as self-defense, but to get the nutrients they need.