Berkeley Botanical Garden Hosts Animal Day

Enya at the University of California Botanical Garden of Berkeley 

The University of California Botanical Garden of Berkeley has one of the largest and most diverse collections of plants in the world. Visitors can see flowers from the cactus, sunflower, and orchid families, among others.

On October 27, the garden hosted its annual Animal Day for children. Interactive activities and stories introduced kids to birds, insects, snakes, and more. There was even a chance to make an animal mask.

Parents and children alike seemed to enjoy the event. “I grew up in Berkeley and remember coming here as a kid,” said Sara Peschel. “It felt like this giant land. The plants are so different in each area of the garden.”

Swallowtail butterflies, which have more than 550 species, are found on every continent except Antarctica. 

VULNERABLE TO DROUGHT

Sally Levinson, a docent, or guide, shared intriguing facts about swallowtail butterflies. She said that sometimes, they stay in their chrysalis (case) for a protracted period of time.

“Sometimes, we have very dry years in California, and there’s nothing for them to eat when they emerge,” Levinson explained. “So they spread themselves out over time, hoping for a good year when there’s plenty to eat for their young.”

Author Collin Pine reads from his picture book, The Garden Next Door, on Animal Day at the University of California Botanical Garden of Berkeley. 

ENJOYING NATURE

In the afternoon, author Collin Pine led a storytime event. He read his picture book, The Garden Next Door (River Horse Books, 2022). The story introduces young readers to three siblings who learn how to care for their backyard so as to bring a little nature to it.

“I hope that the book inspires children—and adults—to welcome native plants and animals into their outdoor spaces,” Pine told me. “Native gardens, big or small, create important habitats for local wildlife. They also happen to be some of the most accessible and magical places for humans too.”