Chances are you'll find Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens in South Deerfield, Massachusetts a relaxing respite from an otherwise hectic world. This is a rare chance to see butterflies in their natural environment. The conservatory houses tropical gardens that are modeled after the butterfly's natural habitat. The main attraction at Magic Wings is an 8,000 square foot conservatory that is home to more than 4,000 free-flying butterflies.
Inside the conservatory you will experience the beauty of the butterfly. To get to where the butterflies are, go through the gift shop and pass through the double entry doors that lead into the conservatory. As you step inside, you'll immediately feel the warm, humid air upon your skin and hear the soothing spa-like music playing in the background. Enchanting butterflies swoop down around you, swirling together, their vibrant colors streaking through the air. Hold out your hand and a butterfly might land on you!
Stroll into the heart of the conservatory by walking along the interconnected walkways. As you pass over the bridge, see the waterfall and koi pond that is stocked with colorful fish. Watch the butterflies as they congregate at feeders that are scattered throughout the gardens. The feeders, which resemble a dish on a stick, hold a water soaked sponge and pieces of cut-up tropical fruit. Observe the butterflies fluttering around bright open flower blooms. The scenery is quite relaxing, especially from the park benches at the gazebo.
The conservatory is not only home to many species of butterfly, but several other types of wildlife as well. Small game birds, called Chinese Button Quail, roam freely between the gardens and pathways. They stop to nibble on ground corn that is set out in their feeders. Brightly colored tropical birds stay in cages and are cared for by conservatory staff who educate visitors about them. You will have to look closely in the vegetation to find frogs that are camouflaged to match the plants and flowers in the conservatory.
When it's time to leave the conservatory area, check yourself for hitchhiking butterflies by using the mirrors lining the exit's vestibule. Not that any of these creatures would want to leave this paradise that has been created for them. Clearly the butterflies love their home as much as the people that come to visit it.
In addition to the impressive butterfly conservatory, there are other interesting things to see at the Magic Wings facility. Several exhibits of unique insects, lizards and frogs are displayed in the entrance area to the conservatory. Most notable is the Stick Insect and Leaf Insect, each looks identical to its namesake. There's also a bright atrium with a large golden butterfly sculpture set amongst tropical plantings which provides a perfect photo opportunity. A restaurant called "Monarchs Restaurant" is located alongside the conservatory, and serves lunch and dinner. Lastly, there's a gift shop stocked with butterfly-themed educational toys, books, and souvenirs.
Magic Wings is open to the public, handicap accessible, and a great destination for visitors of all ages. Families with children especially enjoy Magic Wings, since it's an educational opportunity that everyone will enjoy. Strollers aren't allowed inside the conservatory, so bring a carrier for infants. Allow 1-2 hours for enjoying the conservatory, more if you plan to eat there.
Magic Wings is conveniently located minutes from Interstate 91. Five major New England colleges are within a half hour drive which makes it a prime destination when visiting your college student.
You can learn more about the secret life of butterflies by seeing Magic Wings Conservatory and Gardens for yourself. It's open year-round, 7 days a week (except for Thanksgiving and Christmas). For more information, go to their website at www.magicwings.com
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