Brookfield Zoo Butterflies is a must-visit exhibit for nature enthusiasts and zoo-goers alike. Located near the zoo’s north entrance, this vibrant and interactive display showcases a diverse array of butterfly species native to North America, as well as several species of moths. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and wonder of these delicate creatures, learning about their life cycles, habitats, and the important role they play in the ecosystem.
Variety of Butterfly Species at Brookfield Zoo
The Brookfield Zoo Butterflies exhibit boasts a remarkable variety of butterfly species, including:
- Painted Ladies
- Monarchs
- Zebra Longwings
- Swallowtails
These butterflies, along with several species of moths, create a captivating and ever-changing display, as they flutter and dance among the lush, flowering plants and native grasses that make up the exhibit’s outdoor garden.
Exploring the Butterfly Garden
The Brookfield Zoo Butterflies exhibit is an outdoor garden with a winding path, water features, and a wide assortment of plant life. Visitors can stroll through the garden, observing the butterflies in their natural habitat and learning about the various plant species that attract and support these pollinators.
Many of the plants in the garden are labeled, providing valuable information to guests about what they can grow in their own backyards to create a butterfly-friendly environment. This educational aspect of the exhibit encourages visitors to take an active role in conservation efforts and to incorporate native plants into their own landscaping.
Observing the Butterfly Life Cycle
In addition to the outdoor garden, the Brookfield Zoo Butterflies exhibit also features an off-exhibit space where visitors can observe the transformation from pupa to butterfly. This behind-the-scenes look at the butterfly life cycle provides a unique and educational experience, allowing guests to gain a deeper understanding of these remarkable insects.
Admission and Hours
The Brookfield Zoo Butterflies exhibit is open during regular zoo hours, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission prices are as follows:
| Visitor Type | Regular Admission | Member Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | $4.00 | $2.00 |
| Seniors 65 & Over | $3.50 | $1.75 |
| Children 3 to 11 | $3.00 | $1.50 |
Conservation Efforts
Brookfield Zoo is committed to the conservation of butterflies and their habitats. The zoo is a proud participant in the Illinois Monarch Project, an initiative that aims to protect and preserve Monarch butterfly populations throughout the state.
Through educational programs, habitat restoration efforts, and community outreach, Brookfield Zoo is actively working to raise awareness and support for the conservation of these important pollinators. Visitors to the Brookfield Zoo Butterflies exhibit can learn more about these conservation efforts and find ways to get involved.
Contact Information
For more information about the Brookfield Zoo Butterflies exhibit or to inquire about media-related inquiries, please contact:
Sondra Katzen
Media Relations Manager
Office: 708-688-8351
Cell Phone: 708-903-2071
E-mail: [email protected]
Additional Resources
To plan your visit to the Brookfield Zoo Butterflies exhibit and learn more about the zoo’s conservation initiatives, please visit the following websites:
- Brookfield Zoo Website: www.brookfieldzoo.org
- Illinois Monarch Project Website: www.illinoismonarchproject.org
References:
– Brookfield Zoo Butterflies Exhibit
– Illinois Monarch Project
– Brookfield Zoo Press Release: Butterflies! Reopens at Brookfield Zoo on May 28
– Brookfield Zoo Butterflies Exhibit Video