Penang Butterfly Farm
Opened in 1986, the Penang Butterfly Farm – located in Teluk Bahang – is one of Penang’s best known and most popular tourist attractions. The eight-hectare butterfly sanctuary houses an impressively varied collection of butterfly species as well as an assortment of other insects. The farm sits at the foot of the Teluk Bahang hills – between the Taman Rimba Park and Teluk Bahang village. It features more than 4,000 butterflies from more than 120 groups as well as other insects and reptiles.
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Penang Butterfly Farm History
David Goh, the owner, founded the farm to introduce and promote entomology – the study of insects – to the Malaysian public. In order to safeguard the various species of butterflies on the island, this conservation centre is dedicated to protecting them and their habitat. Though most people know the Penang Butterfly Farm to be a tourist attraction, this butterfly ‘safe haven’ has gained an international reputation within the industry. Its other functions include increasing awareness on conservation issues pertaining to the rainforest and butterfly habitats.
Penang Butterfly Farm Layout
The ‘living museum’ houses various exotic butterfly species including the Rajah Brooke and the endangered Yellow Bird wing butterfly and it also plays host to over 300 plant species. Additionally, it is involved in breeding programs thus resulting in its function as an education, entertainment and research centre. Meanwhile, located within the park, is the Tropical Fruit Farm – a 25-acre organic orchard with more than 250 types of fruit including durians and West Indian cherries. Along with a tour around the orchard, you should also take the opportunity to sample the delicious fruits as well as freshly squeezed fruit juices.
The Natureland
The Natureland, which is a living garden vivarium, is a shared ecological space for a variety of animals from invertebrates and reptiles living in their re-created natural habitat. It is the one of the largest butterfly garden in Malaysia with approximately 15,000 free-flying butterflies at any one time consisting of up to 60 species. The living garden features more than 200 species of plants with waterfalls, ponds, caves and other artistic garden features. Be sure to stroll along the mezzanine-terrace from David’s Garden and get a majestic view of our Home Tree.
The Cocoon
The Cocoon features two floors of learning exhibition and indoor activities. This indoor discovery centre is designed to let visitors self-explore the world of invertebrates through various interactive edu-stations. Besides the walk-through experience, visitors will also be guided to participate in fun hands-on learning activities. The entire Cocoon itself is also a state-of-the-art facility where the visitor experience is enhanced by technology guided interpretations. Some of its exciting attractions include the Pandora Forest, Metamorphosis, Lumino City, Downtown Entopia, Breeding Ground, Underground Mysteries and Understory Tales.
Filled with life butterflies, insects and reptiles it is indeed one of the must visit attractions in Penang. It's appealing to both the young and old.
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