This summer, visitors to Tropical World can immerse themselves in the world of beautiful butterflies and participate in the Big Butterfly Count.
The renowned indoor zoo boasts an abundant Butterfly House, where a variety of butterflies flutter freely. After exploring the indoor exhibits, guests are invited to venture into Roundhay Park’s wildflower meadow to discover more about the local butterfly populations. In celebration of the Big Butterfly Count, Tropical World has expanded its butterfly collection to introduce several new species. Armed with a Butterfly Spotter Sheet, visitors can enjoy identifying these exotic species as they meander through the mangrove settings.
This year’s Big Butterfly Count is kicking off with a special launch event at Tropical World, held in collaboration with Butterfly Conservation, featuring family-friendly activities on July 13 and 14. During the event, children can create their own butterfly feeders, enjoy face painting, and partake in coloring activities. Additionally, the café will serve a variety of themed food options.
Throughout the summer holidays, Tropical World will offer daily animal keeper talks at 2pm. These talks will educate visitors on various butterfly species and their life cycles. The Big Butterfly Count, a UK-wide survey, plays a crucial role in assessing environmental health by encouraging participants to count butterflies they observe within a 15-minute period. This year’s count starts on Friday, July 12 and continues through August 4.
Last year’s Big Butterfly Count revealed an improvement in butterfly populations compared to the previous four years, although their habitats continue to face significant threats. Located just a short walk from Tropical World, the wildflower meadow in Roundhay Park provides an ideal spot for participating in the nationwide count. Participants are encouraged to pick up a free Butterfly Conservation ID chart from Tropical World, then spend 15 minutes at the meadow observing and recording any butterfly species they spot.
Adding to the summer’s attractions, the new Roundhay Park sculpture trail debuts this season. Starting at the Park Lane entrance and winding through the woods to the wildflower meadow near the Castle Folly, the trail features eight stunning sculptures carved from felled beech trees. Each piece, crafted by local chainsaw artist Shane Green, represents different forms of wildlife found in the park, such as deer, foxes, owls, squirrels, swans, and the diverse butterflies and flowers of the meadow.
Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space said:
“This summer promises to be a great one at Tropical World, with lots to learn about butterflies. The Big Butterfly Count is a wonderful initiative, and I would encourage anyone who has the time to take part in it. Not only will it help us assess the butterfly habitats in the UK, but it is also a very peaceful summer activity. When you are in Roundhay Park, be sure not to miss the new sculpture trail, I’m very impressed by the wood carved artworks and they make a wonderful addition to the park.”
The experience at Tropical World is designed to be immersive and educational. Informative signage throughout the exhibits offers facts about the animals’ natural habitats, dietary habits, and conservation status. This enhances the visitor experience, making it both fun and enlightening. The facility is also equipped with amenities to ensure comfort and accessibility for all guests. There are paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, making it an inclusive environment. Additionally, the café on site provides a pleasant spot for visitors to relax and reflect on their journey through the tropics.
Tropical World in Leeds is a popular UK attraction that offers an extraordinary window into the diverse ecosystems of the tropical zones of the world. Situated in Roundhay Park, one of the biggest city parks in Europe, Tropical World attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, providing a vibrant, educational experience for all ages www.tropicalworld.leeds.gov.uk
