Types of different butterflies can be found across South Africa, as well as the smallest butterfly in the world, the Dwarf Blue Butterfly, which has a wingspan of only half an inch. Swallowtail butterflies can also be found in South Africa and unlike the Dwarf Blue butterfly, this particular species are large and brightly coloured. These butterflies got their name from their tails, which resemble that of a swallow’s tail and make them an exquisite sight to see. Another unique feature of this butterfly is that when they are a caterpillar, they have a fork like structure behind their heads called an osmeterium, which they use to defend themselves when threatened.
For those people interested in types of different butterflies, there are places that they can visit to experience the beauty and serenity of these insects. One such place is the Butterfly House in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu Natal. This facility has walk through tours so that people can learn about the butterflies whilst being surrounded by these tranquil beauties. The Butterfly House additionally has a butterfly museum which is home to a number of different specifies of butterflies, as well as a nursery which sells butterfly host plants. The Butterfly House is also home to a gallery of butterfly art produced by local artists. This really is not a place to miss out on if you are interested in butterflies.
The Butterfly House is not the only place at which to interact with butterflies such as the Swallowtail, there are a number of different parks such as Butterfly World in the Western Cape which is the largest free flying park for butterflies in Southern Africa. These parks allow their visitors the chance to gather as much information about these often brightly coloured treasures from caterpillar stage right through their metamorphosis into the wondrous creatures we call butterflies. So why not visit one of these parks and the host of species available for your enjoyment, all whilst learning about types of different butterflies.