This is what we went to the Butterfly Jungle to see...Paper Kite.
A couple weeks ago, over the kids spring vacation we traveled to the San Diego Safari Park, which was hosting a special Butterfly Jungle exhibit. This visit was also an assignment for Merrick's preschool as well. Thanks to my parents, we have a membership and are able to enter the park for free!
While waiting for our appointment time to see the butterflies, we spent some time "Hangin with the Bats."
My little bats :-)
Next, we visited the petting zoo area. Merrick really enjoyed feeding this particular goat!
...and Kierce LOVED the grooming aspect ;-)
...and Rowan did too. Both of the girls dream of having their own horse someday!
As you can see, Merrick was already getting tired before we even got to the Butterfly Jungle. Since the Safari Park is inland, it is always at least 10-15 degrees hotter there than where we live. It was over 80 degrees that day and the kids were hot and a little lethargic! I'll have to admit, I was too. I think we are getting spoiled with our 60's and 70's!
After a couple hours of playing it was our time to get in line to enter the Butterfly Jungle! The kids were excited!
Shortly after we entered the Jungle, a Common Blue Morpho landed on Rowan's leg!
...then a Monarch, and many more.
After just chilling in one place for a while, this little guy landed on my side. There were a few instances when I could feel a butterfly on me, but when I would turn to look I was certain they flew away. I am sure this happened to all of us at least a few times.
This Giant Owl stayed on Merrick's head for a while, but eventually Kierce began to get discouraged after not having a special experience with one of these creatures like her siblings, to the point where a few tears trickled down her face.
Boy did Kierce cheer up when her sweet sister decided she would find a butterfly for her younger sister. Rowan always had a knack for catching butterflies by hand, starting at the young age of three! ...and finding this Grecian Shoemaker sure helped put a smile on her sisters face!
...a little playing around on our way out.
...and even more, of course!
