In search of Tree Nymphs and Swallowtails
T ropical butterflies such as the Blue Mor- pho (Morpho Peleides) and Owl Butterfly (Caligo Beltrao) have been hatching throughout the summer in the Butterfly House at Berkeley Castle.
Open Sunday to Thursday until the end of August, the Butterfly House is located within greenhouses inside the historic walled garden in the grounds of Berkeley Castle.
The harsh winter destroyed some of the rare and unusual plant species in the Butterfly House but due to the dedication of the staff, it is once again looking stunning, and the butterflies are enjoying the tranquil environment.
About 25 different species of tropical butterflies are hatched on site and are bred throughout the summer to maintain the numbers.
The team spend many hours every day ensuring that the correct temperature and environment is maintained for optimum flying, feeding and breeding conditions for the butterflies.
Visitors can learn about the life cycle of these beautiful creatures and staff are always on hand to answer questions and to explain the balance of nature created in this oasis on the Berkeley Estate.
The building of Berkeley Castle began in 1117 and it still remains the home of the Berkeley family.
The castle was the scene of the brutal murder of Edward II in 1327 and it was besieged by Cromwell's troops in 1645.
The state apartments contain magnificent collections of furniture, rare paintings by primarily English and Dutch masters, and tapestries.
Some of the world famous Berkeley silver is on display and many other rooms including the Great Hall are available to view.
The castle is surrounded by lovely terraced Elizabethan gardens with a lily pond, Elizabeth I's bowling green, sweeping lawns and the walled garden.
Entry to the Butterfly House is included in the ticket for the castle and grounds (£7.50 adults; £6 concessions; £4.50 children).
Visitors can also come to the Butterfly House as often as they like without visiting the castle and pay just £2 (£1 for children) per visit.
For more information contact the castle on 01453 810332, e-mail info@berkeley-castle.com or visit the website www.berkeley-castle.com
Blue Morpho (Morpho perleides)
Blue Banded Swallowtail (Papilio nireus)
Emerald Swallowtail (Papilio palinurus)
Lime (Citrus)
Swallowtail (Papilio demoleus)
Malachite (Siproeta stelenes)
Common Mormon (Papilio polytes)
Tree Nymph (Idea leuconoe)
Hercales Longwing (Heliconius hecale)
Glasswing (Greta oto)
Lacewing (Cethosia biblis)
Small Postman (Heliconius melpomene)
Clipper (Pathenos Sylvia)
Atlas Moth (Attacus atlas)
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