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Butterfly Pinning 102
Common Morpho

Embrace the beauty of the common morpho (Morpho peleides), one of the world’s most well-known butterflies, in this hands-on workshop with lepidopterist and Butterfly Exhibit Manager, Clara Aus. We’ll cover the morpho’s life cycle, anatomy, behaviors, and adaptations (like their iridescent blue color) before we begin the guided pinning session. Clara will guide participants through the entire pinning process, from how to rehydrate specimens to pinning and positioning the wings. All our common morpho specimens are ethically sourced from the Butterflies Bloom exhibit after they completed their full natural life cycle. Participants will go home with all the materials for assembling their final specimen shadowbox, and the necessary tools to continue pinning more specimens on their own. Let’s appreciate these special insects and honor the life they lived by continuing to share their beauty!

Fees: Member $53, Non-Member $66

All programs are subject to change. Pre-registration through our website is required.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden strives to be a Garden for all and we are committed to offering diverse adult learning opportunities that are inclusive and accessible to all learners. If you would like to request an accommodation to support your participation in an adult learning opportunity at the Garden, please contact [email protected] or call 804-262-9887 x328 and we will make our best effort to help.

Register Member $53

Register Non-Member $66

Date:
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Time:
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Event Details

All materials are provided. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes as this class will visit the Butterflies Bloom Exhibit.

Clara AusAbout the Instructor

Clara Aus is an insect expert and nature educator based in Richmond, VA. She is the Butterfly Exhibit Manager for Butterflies Bloom. She also teaches courses for adults at the Garden, with topics ranging from pollinator gardening, to medicinal plants, to butterfly pinning and display. Specializing in butterflies and moths, Clara combines her scientific knowledge and access to primary peer-reviewed research studies with easy to understand lessons and activities to inspire a deeper understanding of nature. Her goal is to help others observe and connect with nature so we can all do a better job of restoring and supporting the living world around us.