Introduction

On February 8, 2017 I visited the Florida Natural History Museum, excited to see some beautiful butterflies!

Nature on Display

I explored the Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History. I found the design of the exhibit very appealing because it was (what I image to be) just like a rainforest. There was a plethora of vegetation, birds, lizards, and hundreds of butterflies fluttering around. My attention was captured fully by the butterfly, I followed them around for a good hour trying to take a picture of them and their stunning wings. I learned from this experience of the natural world that I myself had to experience this exhibit first-hand to appreciate the beauty and simplicity that the butterflies had to offer. The most enjoyable part of visiting the museum and experiencing nature was that I didn't have to worry about school or any other responsibilities, I could take my time and enjoy the simplicity beauty that surrounded me.

Nature and Ethics

The Natural History Museum absolutely provided me the opportunity to experience nature in a way that Leopold had recommended because although the nature was contained to the greenhouse, the secluded alcoves within the greenhouse were enough for me to feel completely immersed within nature. I loved visiting because it was so tranquil and serene and I felt at peace. As I went through the exhibit I was in awe of the little flying creatures and their habitat. I could also tell that those surrounded me, young and old, also were experiencing the same feelings that I had. The Natural History Museum allowed visitors of the museum to connect with nature because I was able to get up close and personal with birds and butterflies I wouldn't otherwise get the chance to observe. I believe that the experience in the museum instilled the ethical responsibility to nature that Leopold imagines because of its delicacy and simplicity and I couldn't image life without beauty as simple as what I experienced at the museum.