Butterfly sanctuary to open at Science Centre Singapore

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SINGAPORE - Visitors to Science Centre Singapore (SCS) will be able to see more than 500 live butterflies at its new exhibition which will open on Saturday (April 30).

More than 15 butterfly species, imported from countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Australia, will be housed in a humidity and temperature-controlled space.

Visitors will also see an endangered species - the common birdwing butterfly - which is among the largest butterflies in Asia.

Called Butterflies Up-Close, the exhibition is a collaboration between SCS and Sentosa's Butterfly and Insect Kingdom.

Apart from live butterflies, other highlights include a "Research Pod" where visitors can observe butterfly specimens under microscopes and learn about their anatomy. They will also be able to learn about the winged creatures' life cycle.

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Associate Professor Lim Tit Meng, chief executive of SCS, said on Tuesday (April 26) at the exhibition launch that he hopes that it will help foster a love for nature among the young.

He said: "Our younger generation has lost touch with nature and many have the wrong attitude towards insects.

"We hope that the attraction will foster a deeper appreciation of the often misunderstood invertebrate communities and create a greater awareness for such species which share the same planet as us."

The exhibition will be Singapore's first indoor butterfly sanctuary and Prof Lim said it provides a good option for people who want to experience nature in an indoor environment.

Butterflies Up-Close is located at SCS's Hall D and will be open to the public from April 30. Tickets are priced at $10 excluding admission to the SCS.

kcarolyn@sph.com.sg

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