I especially enjoyed the cases of chrysalises within the exhibit. Ed Spevak, assistant curator of mammals and our guide through The Butterfly Zone, told us that they receive the insects as chrysalises and then exhibit them in these cases until they emerge as adults. On average, there are about 1,000 butterflies and moths within the exhibit at one time, and over 35 species. Upon exiting the giant caterpillar, you are confronted with The Butterfly Zone Maze. You are asked to take the challenge of starting as an egg and trying to make it through your life cycle.
Dead ends bring no food, no mate, or even predators.
It is a wonderful way to learn all of the phases of the butterfly's life cycle, common myths, adaptations and threats to its survival. Once you make it through the maze, you enter the Butterfly Zone's Gardens. This beautifully landscaped garden will help you learn about the plant species that are crucial to the butterfly. Learn what to plant in your own garden in order to attract butterflies to your home. What a great way to become involved in butterfly conservation.