Oct 1–31, 2012
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday through Sunday (closed Monday)
This autumn, the conservatory will be full of eyes—eyespots that is. Visit us during the month of October for the annual Owls and Orchids event, when the Butterfly House expands its collection of Owl Butterflies from 150 to over 1,000 creatures – more than ten times the normal number! In addition, the conservatory will be adorned with over 100 colorful, blooming orchids.
Native to Central and South America, Caligo butterflies get their common name from the large black and yellow spots on their wings—bearing an uncanny resemblance to the eyes of an owl. These spots help keep would-be predators at bay, as well as draw attacks toward the hindwings and away from the more vulnerable body. Thousands of these eyespots peering out from behind the petals of orchid blossoms is an eerie and wonderful sight.
Like their feathered namesake, Owl Butterflies are most active in the evening. During the day, they can be found perched on trees or resting on trays of their favorite food: rotting fruit. As caterpillars, they grow large munching on the leaves of banana trees and palms, and after metamorphosis they can be found sipping from the fruits (like many butterflies they like their fruit spoiled, when it begins to liquefy). Because of their affinities for the trees, these caterpillars are actually considered pests by banana farmers!
Though Owl Butterflies prefer fruit, the beautiful orchids provide nectar to many other species of butterflies, some of which they will share the conservatory with—all October long. Come celebrate autumn at the Butterfly House with Owls and Orchids: it's a hoot.
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Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily (closed on Mondays, except Columbus Day, October 8)
Extended evening hours: Tuesdays, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Don't miss this dramatic sight while it lasts! All activities are free with admission.
Members of the Missouri Botanical Garden enjoy free admission. Become a member today!