Tijuana River Valley Regional Park: Bird & Butterfly Garden

While driving back from Border Fields State Park, I stopped at an intersection and saw a small sign for a bird and butterfly park. I was in no rush, so I figured I would check it out and pulled into the parking lot with zero cars. Just so you know, it can be hard to find this place, but here is an image of what the turnoff and lot looks like. It is a fun little spot to explore though and here is all the information.

Details

• Free
• About a half mile trail
• I wrote this in 2015

I assumed that seeing no cars was a positive sign as other people and children could scare off the butterfly’s if they were any there, so I parked and set out on the small trail to see what I could find.

Almost immediately, I was impressed by how pretty the area was. There were so many different colors of plants and trees making up the small trail. As I walked, I realized I needed to take my time and look close to see anything.

After walking for a couple of minutes, I looked down at a pretty plant that caught my eye, and I spotted small antennas. I quickly realized they belonged to a wandering caterpillar; he was gracious enough to pose for me.

When I looked up, there was a beautiful purple plant, and it had at least ten butterflies on it.

I just sat and waited as they flew around then when they landed I slowly got closer to them to get this shot

I sat here for a good 10 minutes just watching them all fly around.

After that, I continued my walk and saw some of the fruit trees they have there.

I didn’t see any other butterflies, but I did get to see a lot of beautiful flowers.

This was a great stop that I enjoyed. The plants were terrific, as were the butterflies that were on them. I imagine, with a little research, I could find the best time to visit to see the most butterflies, but I was happy with my experience here as it was peaceful and beautiful. Check it out and visit Border Field State Park while you are there.