from a flower. It then raises its delicate wings, takes flight and lands--on your nose. This happens every day at year-round butterfly centers across the country. Even when it's winter outside, it's spring inside these conservatories where thousands of butterflies fly freely in climate-controlled environments.
The best time to visit these conservatories is during the morning when the butterflies are most active and when new butterflies emerge from their chrysalises. To observe and learn more about these delicate creatures, visit the Butterfly Pavillion and Insect Center in Westminster, Colorado.
WESTMINSTER, COLORADO
Come in from the Rocky Mountain cold and bask in the warmth of a lush tropical
forest where you'll be surrounded by Checkered Lime Swallowtails, Blue Striped Crows and Green Banded Peacocks--just three of the 50 different species of butterflies living at the Butterfly Pavillion. About 1,200 butterflies swirl among the 100 different species of tropical and sub-tropical plants that provide nectar and shelter. An adjoining insect center offers a look at creepy, crawly creatures.
Located at 6252 West 104th Avenue. Admission is $7.95 for adults, $5.95 for seniors and $4.95 for children. Two kids ages 2 and under are free with a paying adult. Open daily from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M., except for the summer months (Memorial Day to Labor Day) when it closes at 6 P.M.For more information, call 303-469-5441.
BUTTERFLY WEB SITES
Find general information about butterflies at the following Web sites--good places to do research before your visit to a butterfly house and to continue your education after you're back at home.THE BUTTERFLY ZONE: To find out what types of butterflies you'll find in your neighborhood, click here. Plus, learn the kinds of flowering plants you can put in your garden to attract butterflies.
Troy Corley lives in Los Angeles with her two children, and is writing a book on insect zoos and butterfly houses.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change.
