Butterfly Pavilion

Invertebrate zoo and research: we are proud to be the first and only stand-alone invertebrate zoo accredited by the association of zoos and aquariums (aza. As an aza member, we are dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. We work locally, regionally, and internationally to study and protect invertebrates, which are the foundation of every ecological system in which we live. At Butterfly Pavilion, we excel at invertebrate conservation that benefits the triple bottom line planet, people, and profit (i.e., creating ecologically sustainable ways for indigenous communities to benefit from invertebrates while eliminating destructive and illegal poaching.

Education: Butterfly Pavilion typically reaches over 115,000 lifelong learners, including over 60,000 students annually through field trips, outreach, and virtual programs. Butterfly Pavilion has become a regional leader in hands-on science and ecology education for prek-12 learners. We bring school curriculum alive through play, project-based learning, and in-depth scientific explorations. In addition, we cultivate a culture of conservation through afterschool enrichment programs, family nature clubs, youth day camps, adult interpretive programs, and volunteer community science projects. Our educational programs are designed to build awareness and appreciation for invertebrates and to help develop a sound, scientific understanding of their role in our ecosystems.

Guest experience: Butterfly Pavilion plays a special role in the community for hundreds of thousands of children and adults in our region. Since Butterfly Pavilion opened, we have welcomed nearly 5 million visitors and helped them create memorable, fun, hands-on experiences with invertebrates. Every year, over 350,000 guests are introduced to the incredible diversity of invertebrate life and gain an appreciation for the importance of these creatures. Learners of all ages are immersed in a tropical conservatory with thousands of butterflies, hold a friendly tarantula, and touch marine invertebrates. Through interactive exhibits, visitors discover how our lives are dependent on invertebrates and are inspired to do their part in protecting these invaluable animals.