Overview

Did you know: a group of butterflies is called a kaleidoscope!

In 2024, Carleton University’s Biology Department will host the 25th Annual Biology Butterfly Show in the Nesbitt Biology Building greenhouse.

The Butterfly Show began in 1999 when Greenhouse Manager Ed Bruggink had an inspiring idea. Observing the excitement that butterfly greenhouses brought to communities across Ontario, he thought, “We could make that happen here at Carleton.” From the outset, the goal was to provide a free community event, inviting families to Carleton and offering young people a unique, early introduction to science education.

Initially, the show ran in May around Mother’s Day. However, in 2002, Carleton asked Ed to host a second Butterfly Show to mark the university’s 60th anniversary. This additional October show, coinciding with Thanksgiving weekend, created a special family-oriented atmosphere. Moreover, Ed could now enlist help from students actively studying on campus during this time of year. With the support of these student volunteers, the October timing became a permanent fixture.

During the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Biology faced a crucial decision: cancel the show or attempt a virtual version. Unanimously choosing to adapt, in 2020 and 2021, carefully spaced volunteers offered virtual tours from inside the greenhouse. This innovative approach allowed the show to reach schools and families worldwide for the first time.

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary in 2024, we’re proud of this milestone and deeply grateful to our community donors who made it possible. Thank you for your contributions over the past quarter-century. We look forward to continuing the butterfly experience into the future.

The Background

During the 9 days leading up to the Thanksgiving weekend, 1,000 live exotic butterflies, representing 41 different species from around the world, will be released into the Carleton butterfly greenhouse.

Each year, the Butterfly Show costs approximately $9,000 to run. The majority of this cost goes towards importing over 1,000 tropical butterflies from various countries.

The Butterfly Show has always relied on the generosity of its visitors. To ensure its continued success and accessibility for future generations, we encourage your support through a generous donation. To help us celebrate 25 years, consider adopting a butterfly!

The Rollout

Donations to the Butterfly Show help us sustain the following aspects:

Pupae Importing:

The hundreds of butterflies you see in the Nesbitt Greenhouses have traveled across the world as pupae. These stars of the show account for the majority of the yearly costs (around $7,000).

Presentations:

Let’s Talk Science presentations are delivered by volunteer students from Carleton University and the University of Ottawa. While tours are offered free of charge to schools and local community groups, the department supports the purchase of images and models used to enhance the interactive learning experience.

Facilities:

Annual facility costs include butterfly nursery upkeep, emergence cage repairs, and signage maintenance.

Adopting a Butterfly

• With a minimum commitment of $9 a month, you’ll be adopting a new butterfly each and every month! Becoming a monthly donor is easy and creates a sustainable impact while helping plan for next year’s show.
• You can adopt one butterfly, or as many as you would like, at $9 each.
• Adopt a flutter (11 butterflies) with a $100 donation
• Adopt a kaleidoscope (28 butterflies) with a donation of $250

Any donation towards the show is greatly appreciated, as it’s thanks to our donors’ contributions that the show continues year after year.

The Impact

Carleton University maintains close ties with the greater Ottawa community. Through events like the Butterfly Show, we provide educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom. The show enhances the Carleton University campus experience for patrons who return each year with their families, becoming an annual tradition many look forward to around the Thanksgiving season.

In 2024, we have once again partnered with Let’s Talk Science to offer talks to school and community groups interested in enriching their Butterfly Show experience.