Wildlife & Conservation: Reiman Gardens Butterfly Wing Docent Program
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Open to all fitness levels; comfortable walking required
Overview
Discover the vibrant beauty of butterflies at Reiman Gardens' Butterfly Wing in Ames. Join their volunteer docent program or simply enjoy the stunning display of species and learn about pollinator conservation.
Volunteer: Butterfly Wing Docent Training
Volunteer with our tropical butterflies!
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About This Adventure
The Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing at Reiman Gardens is open daily and relies on trained volunteer docents. Training sessions are held monthly, and volunteers must complete an online orientation beforehand. The wing features up to 800 live butterflies from around 80 species, with new butterflies regularly on display.
The Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing at Reiman Gardens is open daily to visitors, and relies heavily on the time and dedication of our trained butterfly wing docent volunteers. Butterfly Wing Docent Training takes 1.5 hours, with trainings scheduled at least once/month. Butterfly Wing Docents must attend a one-hour refresher training every April to remain certified to volunteer in the butterfly wing.
This tropical paradise is home to up to 800 live butterflies representing up to 80 different species. Reiman Gardens is permitted to display almost 1,000 different butterflies of native and exotic species, so there’s always something new to see.
All volunteers must create an account and complete an online orientation with the help of our Manager of Volunteer Engagement prior to attending your butterfly wing docent training.
Register by selecting one of the upcoming dates from the calendar. Information to create your volunteer account will be included in your confirmation email.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The Butterfly Wing covers a lush, sometimes uneven terrain; comfortable shoes help you explore fully.
Bring a camera
Capture the vivid colors and delicate wings of the butterflies in a well-lit setting.
Visit during mid-morning
Butterflies are most active and visible when the sun warms the habitat around 10am-12pm.
Support conservation efforts
Consider volunteering or donating to help maintain and expand butterfly habitats.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Ruby-throated hummingbird
- Eastern tiger swallowtail
History
Reiman Gardens was established in 1997 and has grown into a renowned center for horticulture and conservation.
Conservation
The gardens promote sustainable practices and participate in pollinator preservation projects, supporting local ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Ames
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Camera or smartphone
Capture memories of colorful butterflies and lush habitat.
Sun protection
Protect yourself from sun exposure while enjoying the outdoor space.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Be prepared for sudden weather changes.
spring or fall specific
Binoculars
Optional for close-up bird or butterfly viewing.