For 20 years the Butterfly Jungle in Conway, North Wales, UK, has focussed mostly on the prettier side of Lepidoptera – that is, the butterflies. However as our own native species of moths are now under threat, they have recently started a conservation project to reverse this trend.
Moth Breeding Programme
According to Butterfly Conservation, two thirds of common moths are in decline. Sir David Attenborough, their President comments “I hope that this will spur concerted action to save moths, not just for themselves but also for the many species that depend upon them or share their habitats, including ourselves”.
In response to this threat, the Butterfly Jungle has decided to use their considerable talents in helping to breed and re-introduce into the wild our own local moths that have suffered so much from the effects of poor weather in the last few years.
Hot and Humid
The Jungle is aptly named. Entering the butterfly house one is hit by the steamy heat that the exotic butterfly species need. However the second thing that one notices is that the whole place is alive with fluttering wings. Brilliantly coloured butterflies of many different species are free to fly in this man-made jungle; a tangle of plants that thrive in the same humid conditions including datura, banana palms, papyrus, vines and citrus plants.
Scientific & Educational Value
The Butterfly Jungle focuses very much on educating the public, especially youngsters. It is a great place to learn about the life cycle of butterflies and moths – and to find out what the differences between them are. For instance, did you know that butterflies make a pupa out of leaves whereas moths spin a silky cocoon around themselves?
Other Species
In addition to the butterflies and moths, you will also see some of the tiniest birds on the planet; colourful seed eating finches occupy the higher echelons of the green house.
Other creatures on display include the Red Kneed Tarantula, the Chinese Water Dragons, the Macklay’s Spectre Stick Insects and the Madagascan Hissing Cockroach – he is quite friendly actually and only hisses when he is afraid!
Suitable for All the Family
This is a visit that is suitable for all ages. Who could fail to be enchanted by these gorgeous creatures? Children, teenagers adults and the elderly alike seem to be fascinated by the spectacle of so many exotic species concentrated in one location.
One can just sit awhile and see what flutters by, or watch them congregating around the feeding stations using their long tongues to sip nectar and fruit syrup.
Stop for a Cup of Tea
Rehydrate yourself with a nice cup of tea or coffee after you leave the hot house or let the children spend their pocket money in the little gift shop or play in the gardens.
Scooter Friendly
The visit is scooter friendly for those who need to get about on a mobility scooter or in a wheel-chair.
How to Get There
The Butterfly Jungle is located just a short walk from the centre of Conway.
Bodlondeb Park, Conwy LL32 8DU - Wales, UK
Tel: 01492 593149
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