Abstract: A shape memory alloy actuator for rotating a pair of rotary members simultaneously and symmetrically like a butterfly moves its wings. The two rotary members are rotatably connected to each other at each one end portion thereof and biased in rotating directions opposite to each other by a biasing device. A wire-shaped shape memory alloy extending in a direction intersecting the rotary plane of the rotary members and fixed at opposite end portions thereof are associated at the intermediate portion thereof with a connected portion between the rotary members. When heated, the alloy shrinks attempting to return to the original length it remembers, and pushes the connected portion to rotate the rotary members against the biasing device. When cooled, the alloy, being stretched, allows the rotary members to be rotated back to their initial positions by the biasing device. A butterfly device involving the actuator is also disclosed.