Hidden Wonders | Beautiful Butterflies at Tama Zoological Park

Nestled within the hills of Tokyo's Tama Zoological Park lies a hidden gem: Insectopia, a unique habitat that showcases around 20 species of butterflies year-round.

The exhibit, housed in a large greenhouse, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of butterflies. However, the butterflies' behavior and visibility can vary greatly depending on the time of year and weather conditions.

A Dynamic Environment

The greenhouse is designed to mimic the natural environment of these delicate creatures as closely as possible. In winter, when temperatures can drop significantly, the facility is heated to maintain a comfortable 20°C (68°F), ensuring that the butterflies remain active.

However, during the warmer months, there is no air conditioning. Instead, temperature regulation is achieved by strategically opening and closing windows and using fans to circulate fresh air.

On sunny summer days, the temperature inside the greenhouse can soar to nearly 40°C, making it a challenging environment even for the warmth-loving butterflies. During these times, they seek shelter in the shade or perch on leaves, staying still to avoid overheating.

*A Nagasaki swallowtail butterfly at Insectopia in Tama Zoological Park (©JAPAN Forward by Daniel Manning)*

The Importance of Timing

Butterflies are ectothermic, meaning external temperatures and light heavily influence their activity levels. In the wild, butterflies are rarely seen in cooler temperatures or after sunset.

Similarly, they tend to become less active in the greenhouse in the evening or during cooler, overcast weather. With no artificial lighting, the exhibit relies solely on natural sunlight. When it dims, the butterflies retreat to branches and leaves, becoming nearly invisible as they rest.

A Morning Paradise

For those looking to experience the "butterfly paradise" in full swing, sunny mornings are the best time to visit. Insectopia is located near the entrance of the zoo, making it an ideal first stop on a bright day.

Early visitors are rewarded with the sight of butterflies fluttering energetically through the air, creating a magical scene reminiscent of a tropical garden.

Caring for the Butterflies

During the colder months, some butterflies can be seen resting on the concrete pathways of the greenhouse, trying to absorb warmth from the ground. Visitors are kindly asked to be cautious and avoid stepping on these vulnerable creatures.

*A paper kite butterfly at Insectopia in Tama Zoological Park (©JAPAN Forward by Daniel Manning)*

The zoo staff, who carefully rear the butterflies from egg to adulthood, take immense pride in their care. Each butterfly has a short lifespan of just two weeks to a month, and the staff's dedication ensures they live their brief lives to the fullest.

The Unique Design of Insectopia

The structure of Insectopia itself is designed to resemble a butterfly with its wings spread open. With its lush vegetation and pathways winding through the space, the interior offers visitors a close-up view of the butterflies as they fly freely.

Unlike typical butterfly exhibits where the insects are confined behind glass, here, they share the space with the visitors. This immersive environment makes Insectopia a unique destination for those interested in these beautiful creatures.

Exhibit Highlights

One of the highlights of Insectopia is the sheer variety of butterflies on display. Species include the large black-and-blue spangle, the strikingly patterned Indian red/Asian admiral, and the delicate white-winged paper kite. Each butterfly, with its unique color and pattern, adds to the kaleidoscope of hues that make the exhibit so captivating.

Beyond butterflies, Insectopia also features other fascinating insects and plants. Visitors can spot stick insects camouflaged among the leaves and various species of grasshoppers. The diverse flora not only provides sustenance for the insects but also creates a lush, jungle-like atmosphere within the greenhouse.

A Space for Insect Enthusiasts

Insectopia is the brainchild of the late Dr Minoru Yajima, a renowned entomologist and former director of the zoo. His vision was to create a space where visitors could appreciate the beauty and complexity of insects in a natural setting.

Today, Insectopia continues to fulfill that vision, enchanting visitors with its innovative design and the mesmerizing world it contains.

Visiting Tips

For those planning a visit, it is recommended to arrive early, especially on sunny days, to catch the butterflies at their most active. Despite the lush environment, visitors should wear long sleeves and pants during the summer months to avoid mosquito bites.

Additionally, while it may be tempting, touching the butterflies is strictly prohibited, as even a gentle touch can harm these fragile creatures.

Tama Zoological Park's Insectopia is more than just an exhibit—it is an experience. Whether you are an insect enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil escape, this butterfly sanctuary offers a glimpse into a delicate and beautiful world right in the heart of Tokyo.

Author: Daniel Manning