Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Victoria Butterfly Gardens is 2 km (1.2 mi.) s. at jct. Benvenuto Ave. and Keating Cross Rd. at 1461 Benvenuto Ave. This 1,110-square-metre (12,000-sq.-ft.) indoor tropical garden was designed specifically for the housing and breeding of more than 70 exotic butterfly and moth species. Between 600 and 1,200 pupae are imported each week and displayed in the Emerging Window.

Thousands of butterflies—from the 2.5-centimetre-long (1-in.) helicon to the 30.5-centimetre-long (1-ft.) atlas moth—fly free among tropical plants and flowers, including an orchid exhibit and a carnivorous bog. Water falls into a stream that is home to koi fish and tropical ducks. Parrots, flamingos and songbirds also call the gardens home. Other garden residents include poison dart frogs, geckos, chameleons and turtles.

Time: Allow 1 hour minimum.