I’m one of those wimpy people — the kind whose knees get weak at the mere mention of a spider and who must build up courage just to wield a fly swatter.
With more than 1,000 tropical butterflies of more than 30 different species flying free in two greenhouse spaces, there’s no better place to start conquering a lifelong fear of insects than the live butterfly show at Carleton University.
In overcoming a crippling fear, experts always say to start small. I figured that butterflies, with their bright colours and fragile wings, would be a good place to begin.
According to Ed Bruggink, I’m not alone. “A tour started yesterday and I went in to see if everyone was OK,” said the greenhouse manager.
“I heard squealing and saw people ducking their heads,” he chuckled.
More than 12,000 people are expected to attend the show, held in the Nesbitt Biology Building’s greenhouses through Thanksgiving Monday.
Minutes after entering the greenhouse, I have a run-in with an enormous 10-inch Atlas moth.
Seriously.
Bruggink tries to snag it for a photo I want to take, but it dodges him, flying into my face. I stifle a shriek.
“It’s large and intimidating,” Bruggink admitted. “It’s the largest moth in existence.”
So much for starting small.
“But they can’t hurt you,” he said. “Most of the time, they’ll try to avoid humans.”
I surprise myself when I feel peaceful and at ease just minutes later. In addition to being beautiful, there’s something appealing and even romantic about butterflies’ fragility.
In their adult stage, these tropical butterflies will only live for three weeks, Bruggink said.
“Every time a butterfly flaps its wings, little bits of scales fall off its body. The clock is ticking on its life.”
In spite of myself, I feel sad. After all, aren’t these insects we’re talking about?
“That’s part of life,” said Bruggink. “That’s why we like to see them flying around and having a good time.”
No predators. The utmost respect from visitors. A warm welcome. In preparation for their arrival, Bruggink has brought in some new plants and flowers — “a banquet for the butterflies.”
“For them, this is paradise,” he said.
In return, the butterflies have a calming effect on people.
“I’m sure that when you’re in here, your blood pressure goes down,” he said.
Driving back to the office, I’m humming along with the radio. I’m driving slower.
Bruggink’s right. The butterflies have actually made me happier.
And no rolled up newspaper was required.
