This being Thanksgiving weekend, it’ll be all about the turkey for many city residents.
But the greenhouse manager at Carleton University hopes the public will spare some time for a different kind of animal.
In its 10th year, Carleton’s live butterfly show at the Nesbitt Biology Building is bigger and better than ever. Attracting over 10,000 visitors over its 10-day run, the show features 1,300 butterflies, which arrived in five shipments.
“We have 41 species from around the world,” said Ed Bruggink. That number is up from 30 from last year.
While more than 1,000 area students visited during the week, this long weekend will mostly be about families, some with out-of-town guests.
While the exhibit’s only moth — the enormous atlas moth — is a staple at the show, the owl butterfly, with its striking markings and willingness to “ride on a slice of orange” is a favourite with visitors. who want to get up close and personal.
If you go
• The show, which runs through Monday, costs between $5,000 and $6,000 to put on, but admission is always free.
• Donations to offset operating expenses are encouraged.
