Adult Programs

Little Miss Muffet may have been afraid, but you won’t be as you learn about spiders and other arachnids such as scorpions, camel spiders, daddy longlegs, and ticks. Review the evolutionary history of arachnids, the natural history and biology of the different groups, and the medical and economic importance of these animals. Live guests may drop by for an eight-legged howdy do!

Biography: Paula Cushing received her Ph.D. in 1995 from the University of Florida. In 1998, she began her position as Curator at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Her research focuses on the biodiversity, taxonomy, systematics, and evolutionary ecology of arachnids, particularly spiders and wind scorpions, or solifuges. She has published numerous scientific articles as well as popular articles about spiders and insects. She is also very active with the American Arachnological Society and the International Society of Arachnology and has served as President of both these scientific societies.

Syllabus:

Tuesday, October 1st

Introduction to Subphylum Chelicerata, Class Arachnida

· Pycnogonida and Xiphosura

· Palpigradi – micro-whip scorpions

· Opiliones – daddy longlegs or harvestmen

· Acarina – mites and ticks (begin, live guests)

Thursday, October 3rd

· Acarina – continued; microscope exercise

· Ricinulei – hooded tick-spiders

· Pseudoscorpiones -- pseudoscorpions

· Solifugae – camel spiders or wind scorpions

Tuesday, October 8th

· Solifugae – continued (sex video!)

· Scorpiones– scorpions (live guests)

· Schizomida – short-tailed whip-scorpions

Thursday, October 10th

· Amblypygi – tailless whip scorpions (live guest)

· Thelyphonida – vinegaroon or whip scorpion (live guest)

· Araneae – spiders (just a taste and live guests (but not a taste of live guests!)

*This class is geared towards adults but is suitable for 16+ with a parent in attendance*

Whether you’re a paparazzi or can’t figure out your camera or phone, join expert photographer Bob Krugmire for hands-on instruction that will teach you to maximize the potential of your camera! Leave with better skills, knowledge, and tons of fantastic close-up shots. Space is limited! Pre-registration and pre-payment are required.

Experience a rejuvenating yoga class in our tropical rainforest. Led by one of our rotating instructors, classes provide an amazing opportunity to transcend the hustle and bustle of daily life as you practice amongst the butterflies in our conservatory.

Due to this program being in high demand no refunds or date change requests can be made for this program. All tickets are final purchase.

Step into the enchanting world of watercolors at our Butterfly Pavilion Watercolor Class, where you'll paint the breathtaking Swallowtail Butterfly under the guidance of an experienced artist.

Frequently referred to as ""swallowtails,"" the Papilionidae butterfly family encompasses the largest and most magnificent species, some of which are sadly endangered. Swallowtail butterflies are distinguished by a distinctive forked tail on their hind wings, resembling that of a swallow, hence their name. Scientists often gauge ecosystem health based on the presence or absence of these butterflies.

Perfect for beginners, this class provides all materials and guarantees a fun-filled experience. Immerse yourself in the soothing flow of watercolors as you learn techniques to bring the Swallowtail Butterfly to life on your canvas. Throughout the session, you'll receive step-by-step instruction and personalized guidance to help you unleash your creativity and express yourself artistically.

Join us for an inspiring afternoon of artistic exploration as we capture the delicate beauty of nature in vibrant watercolors.

Why have composers been fascinated by invertebrates, and how have they tried to capture them in their music? You are invited to ""Invertebrates and Music Walks,"" a collaboration between naturalist Dave Sutherland, Boulder Philharmonic, and Butterfly Pavilion. Join us for a stroll through our tropical rainforest, while listening to classical music selections inspired by the world of invertebrates. Led by Dave, immerse yourself in curated compositions as butterflies flutter around us. Conclude your journey outside in Butterfly Pavilion's Discovery Gardens, where specially crafted music invites exploration of invertebrates' lives. Let curiosity guide you through this fusion of sound and nature, where every step reveals a new melody and every encounter unveils unseen beauty.

Partners:

Dave Southerland

Boulder Philharmonic

Details:

• These walks are of low difficulty but involve trail walking.

• Please dress appropriately for the outdoor environment, including breathable clothes, sturdy walking shoes, and sunscreen

Music and sound profoundly impact our well-being and can completely transform and elevate our mood. Join IndigoAshley for an hour-long sound healing at Butterfly Pavilion. Enjoy deep relaxation in an immersion of harmonic tones from quartz crystal singing bowls, chimes, and a tongue drum that soothes the body and mind. This meditative sound healing helps dissipate stress, supports happiness and mental clarity, and activates the imagination all while connecting to the frequencies of the Earth and all of its inhabitants. You are invited to slow down, sink into your inner wisdom, and intently listen to your dreams, among the beauty of Butterfly Pavilion’s tropical paradise with hundreds of butterflies.

Instructor: Ashley Young