L'île aux papillons, Butterfly greenhouse in La Guérinière, France.
L'île aux papillons is a greenhouse on Noirmoutier Island where tropical plants grow alongside freely flying butterflies in a warm, humid environment. The visitor paths wind through thick vegetation where different butterfly species move about openly.
The greenhouse was established to display endangered butterfly species and educate people about the natural history of these insects. Over time it grew into France's largest tropical butterfly collection.
The space attracts visitors who come to watch butterflies in flight and observe their natural behaviors among plants. The setting encourages a direct connection between people and these insects.
The space is easy to navigate with paths suitable for visitors of all ages, while indoor temperatures remain consistently warm. Wearing light clothing is wise since humidity is high and the contrast with outdoor temperatures can be noticeable.
Visitors can observe Blue Morpho butterflies with their shimmering blue wings and Atlas butterflies, among the world's largest butterfly species. These large specimens fly slowly and are relatively easy to follow, making them particularly captivating for children.
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