The facility manages a specialized laboratory to monitor the birth process of butterflies, often allowing visitors to witness the emergence from the chrysalis.
The exhibit mimics tropical habitats by maintaining temperatures frequently exceeding 25 degrees Celsius.
Butterflies displayed are sourced as chrysalises from professional breeding farms rather than caught in the wild.
The lifespan of the adult butterflies on display typically ranges from only a few days to a few weeks depending on the species.
Planeta Metelykiv (Planet of Butterflies) is an indoor tropical exhibit located within the Expocenter of Ukraine (VDNG) in Kyiv. The facility maintains a high-humidity, high-temperature microclimate to sustain exotic butterfly species from tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and South America. Visitors walk through a free-flight zone where butterflies are permitted to land on guests. The exhibit features a puparium where visitors can observe the transformation cycle of chrysalises into winged adults. The environment is designed to simulate a natural rainforest, including live tropical plants and controlled lighting to influence insect activity. It functions both as an educational center and a conservation display for lepidoptera.
The central botanical area near the nectar feeding stations where butterfly concentration is highest.
Wear bright-colored clothing to encourage butterflies to land on you, as they are attracted to vibrant colors.
Remove outerwear upon entering, as the climate-controlled greenhouse is significantly warmer and more humid than the outside air.
Avoid using heavy perfumes or scented lotions, as these can interfere with the butterflies' sensory receptors.
Do not attempt to catch or handle the butterflies forcefully, and refrain from using camera flashes which can disorient them.
Closed on Mondays.
Do not touch the butterflies' wings, as the fine scales are delicate and essential for flight; walk slowly to avoid accidental injury to insects on the floor.
