For Educators: The Butterfly Conservatory
Bring your biology curriculum to life! Walk into our vivarium where students can observe a variety of free-flying butterflies in a controlled climate approximating the insects' native habitats. Lush plantings include the flowers that are the insects' natural nectar sources.
Educators Guide and Materials
More Resources For Educators
Use these free online resources before or after your visit to further explore themes presented in the Butterfly Conservatory exhibition.
Article
Animal Keeper (Science World)
Live animals add an element of surprise to Museum displays. But they need more than a cute face or bright colors to earn a spot in an exhibition hall. Find out what it takes.
Article
Animal Keeper (SuperScience)
From blue butterflies and red frogs to a green iguana nicknamed "Iggy," meet the live animals in the Museum's exhibitions and the people who take care of them.
Article
The Butterfly Kingdom
Taiwan may be a small island, but it's home to more kinds of butterflies than any almost other place in the world — about 400 species have been discovered by scientists. Find out why.
Activity
Draw a Monarch
You don't have to be a terrific artist to create a scientific illustration of a monarch butterfly—just willing to take your time researching and re-creating what you find. Learn how.
Article
Which Way Out--A Study of the Exit Tunnels Made by the Goldenrod Gall Fly, Eurosta solidaginis
Monarch butterflies have an internal magnetic compass that guides their migration. Is a similar force at work guiding the gall fly’s exit tunnels? See what this young naturalist discovered.
Metamorphosis
The butterfly begins life as an egg, emerges as a caterpillar, and then undergoes a complete change in body form during development--a dramatic metamorphosis.
The wormlike butterfly larva, or caterpillar, looks nothing like a winged adult.
Activity
Wear a Chimp on Your Wrist
How can you wear a chimp on your wrist—without getting primate elbow? The answer to this riddle is not as tough as it may seem. Need a hint? Take a closer look at genetic code.
