ivid swirls of living color and the delicate whispers of wings will fill the air as Butterfly Kaleidoscopepresented by Citizens Energy Group returns to the Indianapolis Zoo.
Following a year-long hiatus, guests can once again experience this beautiful and immersive exhibit from March 17 through Sept. 10. Set inside the Hilbert Conservatory at White River Gardens, this popular seasonal showcase features thousands of these wonderful winged insects free-flying throughout a tropical, indoor paradise that visitors will never want to leave.
This year’s awe-inspiring exhibit will highlight 40 species from four different continents. Among the radiant varieties are Indiana natives, such as the American painted lady, as well as stunning exotic insects, from the small-yet-striking Costa Rica tiger to the blue morpho, one of the world’s largest butterflies with a wingspan up to 8 inches across.
With 30 brand new species, Butterfly Kaleidoscope will feature moths for the first time this year. Among the types will be the Madagascan sunset moth, a multi-colored, iridescent insect often thought of as the most beautiful of its kind.
Each day, visitors can witness these creatures’ incredible metamorphosis unfolding inside the emergence chamber located near the center of the Conservatory. Timed daily releases offer a perfect opportunity for guests to have a close encounter, and a newly emerged butterfly may even pause momentarily on a guest’s hand before taking its first flight.
Vibrant colors continue throughout the space with stunning artistic elments, including hand-blown glass feeders and the build-a-butterfly activity wall that younger guests will love.
Home gardeners interested in bringing butterflies to their own backyards can discover the native pollinator garden located behind the Conservatory. Inspiration can also be found outdoors amid the 3 acres of lush plantings throughout the Gardens, which will soon be bursting with beautiful spring tulips.
Admission to White River Gardens, including the Hilbert Conservatory and Butterfly Kaleidoscope, is free for Zoo members and included with regular Zoo admission. Guests are encouraged to save time and money by planning their visit in advance at IndianapolisZoo.com.
