Nature abounds in Amsterdam, particularly De Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam! (Photo-essay)

Although I did manage to venture to other parts of the Netherlands beyond just Amsterdam and Schipol Airport on my recent visit to the country, I only glimpsed its countryside from aboard trains moving between cities and towns.  Thanks to a visit to De Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, however, I did manage to spend some time appreciating natural sights on thjs recent European trip.  

Actually, on our way to this treasure trove of a botanical garden, my American friend and I had spotted some wild winged creatures, including the kind of herons who don't look too different from ones I've seen in Hong Kong and Japan, in the vicinity!  And while we're on the subject of birds: the flocks of seagulls in many different parts of Amsterdam, including the Museumplein, served as a constant reminder that Amsterdam is a former fishing village that grew over the centuries into a major port-city...

Not the kind of large wild bird you expect to catch sight of

perched on a tree in a major world city, right?!

 Can you tell which of the birds in the above photo 

are real and which are not? ;b

 This botanical garden which was founded in 1638

is home to a number of wonderful greenhouses

The large Three Climate Greenhouse has a very cool 

overhead walkway that gives ones great views

from high up of the abundant foliage arrayed below

 

Upon approaching the Hortus Botanicus' Butterfly Greenhouse,

I could scarcely believe my eyes upon catching sight of 

the South American Glasswing Butterfly! :O

 

Their flitting can frustrate when you try to photograph them

but it's really hard to not find butterflies attractive, right? :)

 

Puppet Ponyo looked enchanted, perhaps even ecstatic, 

upon being able to get up so close to a group of butterflies :)

 

On the other hand, no way was she going to go near

these seriously scary-looking Venus flytraps! ;O