6GLE360_BolzConservatory_20210128 Transcript  

Tropical forests are the earth's most diverse habitat, and home to at least half of all species on earth; The plant collection at Bolz Conservatory mimics the great diversity that exists within the world's tropical forests. From the towering palms to the huge-leaved Xanthosoma, look around for both new and familiar plants.  

Some plants in the Bolz Conservatory’s collection are endangered. Plant collecting at Olbrich Botanical Garden has been focused on areas that are in imminent threat of destruction, with the goal that Olbrich might do its part in conserving endangered plants and educating the public on the delicate balance of ecosystems.   

The Conservatory houses a collection of more than 650 plants representing more than 80 plant families and 475 species and cultivars from tropical and sub-tropical environments around the world.  

Canaries range in color from brown to orange to yellow and are the size of a parakeet. They are native to the Canary Islands. Canaries are often seen flying around the treetops, roosting in the taller trees, or feeding at a feeder station. Look for flashes of color among the trees and listen to their gleeful chirping. [chirping]   

Beneficial insects like green lacewing and pirate bugs are periodically released into the Conservatory to feed on harmful insects. These insects are part of an Integrated Pest Management system and have eliminated the need for insecticide spraying.   

Coturnix quail are brown and gray and stand about eight inches in height. They are native to Asia. The quail are solely ground birds and can be seen scratching at the ground under the protective cover of plants. The quail also provide control of harmful insects. [water trickling]