Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory is a botanical garden maintained for the protection and proliferation of butterflies. This safe haven for these delicate creatures is home to nearly 4,000 fluttery friends in an exotic jungle-like garden inside a massive greenhouse.
During my own visit to Magic Wings for the first time since my infancy for the sake of easy nature photos for my portfolio, I was struck with wonder at the countless beautiful butterflies, gorgeous flora, and serene classical music played in this calm environment. Time seemed to stand still and I felt as though I were in some exotic middle-earth paradise.
While exploring, I befriended a sapphire blue butterfly (see above) who seemed to be following me around as I took photos. It would land on a branch nearby as I crouched to take photos, fluttering its wings slowly open and closed but not flying away until I moved on. It always lingered nearby but just out of my reach, probably in self preservation while it was deciding if I was a threat or not. Nearly an hour into exploring and taking pictures, I had grown quite fond of this butterfly. That's why when it suddenly landed next to me on the sidewalk I took a great interest in watching the slow rhythmic opening and closing of the sapphire wings. But the fluttering became slower and slower as I observed curiously, then and in dismay I watched as the bright blue wings drooped slowly down in a wide open spread and rested on the sidewalk, never to move again. I stared for several long moments before realizing the sad truth, my sapphire winged friend had passed away. During his last hour alive he had followed me around and I had kept him company in his dying moments. I am thankful to have comforted him in his last moments, but I was sad to have seen such a beautiful creature pass away. The photo you see above was taken mere minutes before his passing, but his beauty will be cherished even in death.
To anyone who has the opportunity to experience this slice of paradise for themselves, I urge you to visit. Magic wings is truly a magical place, the serenity and beauty of these creatures is awe inspiring even to those who were indifferent to their beauty. I urge you to visit, just be sure to bring a camera along. You will want to take photos.
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