Alameda Butterfly Habitat
at Bay Farm Elementary School
200 Aughinbaugh Way, Alameda
Lot size: Half acre total; 60’ x 60’ garden; 100’ x 60’ meadow
Garden Age: Planted in stages, beginning in 2002. 53% native
Years on the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour: 5
Showcase feature: This delightful half-acre butterfly sanctuary, located on the grounds of Bay Farm Elementary School, was designed to provide food and shelter for larval and adult butterflies. More than 100 species of native plants that provide food for caterpillars and adult butterflies are on display. This garden, a riot of spring color, attracts butterflies and children alike.
Other garden attractions:
- Interested in learning how to create a school garden, or in medicinal plants, native plant recipes, or ways to get children involved in gardening? Just ask! Native plant gardening and butterfly lessons available.
- The native wildflower meadow boasts twenty-five kinds of native wildflowers in bloom. (Don’t hesitate to ask how you can transform your own lawn into a natural meadow.)
- Snacks and homemade sweets available for purchase; settle down at one of the picnic tables and enjoy.
Gardening for Wildlife: Butterflies, moths, and bees love this garden and the plants selected specifically to attract them. Nectar and host plants have been thoughtfully chosen, a fountain and birdbath provide water, and rotting logs and thickets provide shelter from strong winds and predators. Because many butterflies over-winter as pupae (not adults), the gardeners are cautious when pruning host plants (where butterflies lay their eggs and larvae feed during the cool weather).
Garden Talks: Butterfly gardener extraordinaire Marla Lee will be available to answer questions throughout the day.
Native plants sold or available for donation: A student/parent-run farmer's market will feature native plants and wildflower seeds (available in exchange for donations), as well as habitat-themed soaps and hand-crafted birdhouses worthy of collectors.
Directions:
Heading south on the 880 take the High St. exit and turn right onto High.*
Heading north on 880 take the High St. Exit and turn left onto High.
*Continue through the next light and over the bridge; stay in the left lane. Take the first left after the bridge onto Fernside. Continue on Fernside to the dead end at Otis. Turn left onto Otis and take the first right after the bridge onto Island Drive. Turn right at the light onto Robert Davey Drive. Continue to the dead end at Aughinbaugh. Turn right onto Aughinbaugh; the parking lot for the school and garden is on the left.