The butterfly park in Benalmádena impresses with its multitude of colourful and free flying animals. There are more than 1.500 butterflies in this tropical paradise. "The number always varies a little", says biologist Marina González. She is responsible for the preservation of the tropical garden, the butterfly breeding and the guidance of the visitors. "The butterflies have a life span of 15 to 20 days. Of course, new butterflies hatch during this time. Throughout the year we have 150 different species of butterflies. Most of them come from Africa, Asia, Australia and America."
After entering the botanical garden, it feels like in the tropics. Numerous colorful butterflies fly up and down. A turtle crawls along the narrow path that leads through a green flora. Colourful birds sit on a branch by the waterfall and chirp. Near the entrance there is a small terrace and above there is a balcony where visitors of the butterfly park can have a rest. A few metres behind the entrance area there is a grid on which numerous cocoons and some newly hatched butterflies hang. With a bit of luck, visitors can watch the developing process of an animal in the cocoon to a colourful butterfly in real time. Biologists are always available to answer questions about the butterfly park and its inhabitants. During a tour, it is necessary to pay attention on the path and where to step. Because from time to time, butterflies sit on the ground. Biologists are always available to answer questions about the butterfly park or its inhabitants.
The average temperature in the butterfly park is between 24 and 29 degrees and the humidity is 80 percent. In addition to butterflies, there are turtles, iguanas, parrots, finches, a wallaby and goldfishes. A trip to the butterfly park is suitable for the whole family. (Editor/Photos/Video: Michael Trampert)