Meijer Gardens 2009 Tropical Butterfly Exhibit
Foremost's Butterflies are Blooming in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Feb 25, 2008
Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is home to the largest temporary tropical butterfly display in the United States. Sponsored each spring by Foremost Insurance Group, it runs from March 1 – April 30, 2009.
Hatching Butterflies
The Gardens import thousands of chrysalides that gradually hatch during the two month event. The chrysalides are housed in a special Butterfly Bungalow with large windows so visitors can watch the butterflies emerging. They then are moved to the Butterfly Rest Stop where they spend time gaining strength. Once they are strong enough, they fly free in the conservatory.
The Conservatory
The Lena Meijer Conservatory is 15,000 square feet and five stories high making it the largest conservatory in Michigan. The conservatory is kept at a balmy 80 degrees so these butterflies from Asia, African, South America and Central America all feel quite at home.
The butterflies fly freely among the visitors, even occasionally landing on a lucky person. There are nectar stations throughout the conservatory where the butterflies can be observed having a snack. The butterflies also enjoy the many tropical plants and flowers growing throughout the room. The photo opportunities are nearly endless.
Beauty from Around the World
The collection of over 40 butterflies features a breathtaking assortment of colors, sizes and shapes including the Leopard Lacewing and Scarlett Mormon from Asia, the Tiger Longwing and Blue Morpho from Central and South America, and, new this year, the African Moon Moth from Africa.
Butterfly Information Online
The sponsor of the exhibit provides a very informative and user friendly website. Their website includes:
- a complete listing of the butterflies to be exhibited
- a butterfly gallery
- detailed exhibit information
- information about butterflies including their habitats, lifecycle and senses
- how to set up a butterfly garden at home
- many online and printable activities for children such as coloring pages, mazes, puzzles, crafts and activity pages
Flutter Outside for More Fun
The outdoor children’s garden also has a variety of activities for youngsters. These hands-on activities include flying around in butterfly wings, a maze, a “magiscope”, and a three-dimensional butterfly. Children can also contribute to a mural and make a unique pattern on a butterfly wing.
Hours and Admission
The Frederik Meijer Gardens are open daily from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Tuesdays the hours are extended until 9:00 p.m. Admission varies from $4-$12 based on age. Children under two are free. There is a discount offered for adult groups. Complete details can be found at the garden website.
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