Mission Statement
Indianapolis Zoo
1200 W. Washington St. P.O. Box 22309 Indianapolis, IN 46222.0309
The Indianapolis Zoo
empowers people and
communities, both
locally and globally,
to advance animal
conservation.
317.630.2001 ph
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 9, 2017
Butterfly Kaleidoscope Returns to Indianapolis Zoo
Popular seasonal exhibit opens March 17 in Hilbert Conservatory
INDIANAPOLIS — Vivid swirls of living color and the delicate whispers of wings will fill the air as
Butterfly Kaleidoscope presented by Citizens Energy Group returns to the Indianapolis Zoo.
Following a year-long hiatus, guests can once again experience this beautiful and immersive
exhibit from March 17 through Sept. 10. Set inside the Hilbert Conservatory at White River
Gardens, this popular seasonal showcase features thousands of these wonderful winged
insects free-flying throughout a tropical, indoor paradise that visitors will never want to leave.
Media Contacts
Judy Palermo
PR Senior Manager
317-630-2010
[email protected]
Carla Knapp
PR Specialist
317-630-3257
[email protected]
Melanie Laurendine
Conservation PR Specialist
317-630-3265
[email protected]
This year’s awe-inspiring exhibit will highlight 40 species from four different continents.
Among the radiant varieties are Indiana natives, such as the American painted lady, as well as
stunning exotic insects, from the small-yet-striking Costa Rica tiger to the blue morpho, one of
the world’s largest butterflies with a wingspan up to 8 inches across.
With 30 brand new species, Butterfly Kaleidoscope will feature moths for the first time this
year. Among the types will be the Madagascan sunset moth, a multi-colored, iridescent insect
often thought of as the most beautiful of its kind.
Each day, visitors can witness these creatures’ incredible metamorphosis unfolding inside the
emergence chamber located near the center of the Conservatory. Timed daily releases offer a
perfect opportunity for guests to have a close encounter, and a newly emerged butterfly may
even pause momentarily on a guest’s hand before taking its first flight.
Vibrant colors continue throughout the space with stunning artistic elements, including handblown glass feeders and the build-a-butterfly activity wall that younger guests will love.
Home gardeners interested in bringing butterflies to their own backyards can discover the
native pollinator garden located behind the Conservatory. Inspiration can also be found
outdoors amid the 3 acres of lush plantings throughout the Gardens, which will soon be
bursting with beautiful spring tulips.
Admission to White River Gardens, including the Hilbert Conservatory and Butterfly
Kaleidoscope, is free for Zoo members and included with regular Zoo admission. Guests are
encouraged to save time and money by planning their visit in advance at IndianapolisZoo.com.
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About the Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo empowers people and communities, both locally and globally, to advance
animal conservation. Located in White River State Park downtown, the Indianapolis Zoo is
accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums as
a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. Visit IndianapolisZoo.com