Fields A-Flutter will feature native North Carolina Piedmont butterfly species with special areas to observe adult butterflies emerging from chrysalides. In addition, the Caterpillar Crib will allow guests to study the remarkable life cycle of butterflies up close. The long, screened tent will include host plants (required for eggs and caterpillars) and nectar plants (required for adult butterflies) and will be the temporary home for many butterflies. Having the Crib will allow for the study of their life cycles, which is not easily done in the wild.

During the exhibit, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday, Aug. 3, and each Saturday and Sunday thereafter, staff and volunteers will be on hand at the exhibit site to help guests better understand butterflies and how to attract them to their own gardens. Guided walks through the Caterpillar Crib, handouts, and other interactive experiences will be available each week throughout the exhibit’s run.

Because it is a natural experience, exactly what guest will see on a given visit is a relative mystery. Species will vary from day to day depending on weather conditions such as temperature and cloud cover, but guests can expect to see monarch, black swallowtail, gulf fritillary, painted lady, American lady and other native butterflies.

In addition, during a festive day-long event called Wild Wings, Renelle Maddrery, the Butterfly Whisperer, will teach a continuing education program, Butterfly Gardening, Aug. 4, 1 – 3 p.m. During this class, participants will learn the details about how to create gardens that will attract butterflies throughout their life cycle. Advance reservations are required for this class, and can be made at www.DSBG.org or by calling (704) 829-1252.

For more information about this and other events at the Garden visit http://www.dsbg.org/events.php

Fields A-Flutter is free with Garden admission. Members are admitted free. Adults $12, Seniors (60+) $11, Children (ages 4-12) $6 and children under 4 free. For more information call (704) 825-4490 or log on to www.DSBG.org.