Cuddly new exhibit: 'Legend of the Tarantula' opens at the Butterfly Pavilion Sept. 4

Venture into the world of the cuddly tarantula at the Butterfly Pavilion during the world premiere of its new exhibit, “Legend of the Tarantula” — a story kept secret until now.

The new exhibit dispels the myths surrounding these giants of the spider world. Discover how these versatile arachnids go far beyond the dangerous, scary image given to them by Hollywood and learn the true value of these eight-legged wonders. Come face-to-face with more than 25 rare tarantulas from around the world, including some species never before displayed at the Butterfly Pavilion.

The Victorian-themed exhibit will teach you about the tarantula’s anatomy, habitats, diet, behaviors and cultural significance through interactive panels and activities.

Displayed tarantulas include terrestrial (land) and arboreal (tree-dwelling) species such as the Chinese Golden Earth Tiger tarantula, Cobalt Blue tarantula, the Kilimanjaro Baboon tarantula and the Chilean Rose-haired tarantula, also know as “Rosie.” Rosie is one of the most beloved invertebrates at the Butterfly Pavilion, and “Legend of the Tarantula” explores her world in greater depth in an immersion experience unlike any other at the Pavilion.

Build a tarantula by layering oversized anatomy parts, use a world atlas to discover where tarantulas live, identify different tarantulas by matching specimens with descriptions, dance to Tarantella music and more.

The exhibit also provides quiet and active learning opportunities for younger children in the specially designed Tarantula Town, featuring climbing elements such as a spider web and tarantula burrow, and a reading nook with puzzles, hand puppets and educational games.

“Legend of the Tarantula” opens Saturday and runs through Nov. 28. Entrance into the new exhibit is included with general admission, which is $6.50 for adults, $5.50 for ages 65 and older and children ages 2-12.

The exhibit is fully translated in Spanish, and free bilingual guides are available.

The Butterfly Pavilion is at 6252 W. 104th Ave., on an 11-acre campus 15 minutes from downtown Denver in Westminster. Get directions and information by visiting www.butterflies.org, or by calling 1-303-469-5441.

“Legend of the Tarantula”

The Butterfly Pavilion

6252 W. 104th Ave.

Westminster, CO 80020

1-303-469-5441