Insect zoo showcases entomology
If it has six or eight legs and either flies or crawls, it’s sure to be represented today at the University of Georgia’s 22nd annual Insect Zoo, hosted by the H.O. Lund Entomology Club.
And with that many bugs to see, it’s sure to be a hot spot for creepy-crawler fans.
But the insect zoo, which will be in Biology building room 426, is preparing for much more than a bug exhibit. Other activities include several insect-related displays and games and even a bake sale.
Activities and bugs will line the walls in displays and cages of various sizes, including giant tarantulas and emperor scorpions.
Marianne Robinette, Program Coordinator for the Department of Entomology, said the insect zoo is open to the community.
She also said the University invited several elementary schools to come to the zoo and take campus tours.
Attendees also will be able to pet the insects, as many of the insects are available for handling. It will be a great chance to learn about entomology – how bugs live, eat and grow, Robinette said.
At this event, Robinette is receiving help from graduate and undergraduate students.
Interest in entomology has grown so much that help from undergraduates has become necessary to put the zoo together, she said.
INSECT ZOO
When: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. today
Where: Biology Department, room 426
RSVP: entomolo@uga.edu or 706-542-1238
Graduate students such as Paul Smith, an entomology major from Las Cruces, N.M., said the insect zoo would be a “good experience for anyone to come out and see.”
Smith and other students will be available to answer questions about several of the insects and anthropods.
Although their main audience will be children, The H.O. Lund Entomology club is hoping for any University students or faculty to come and learn as well.
“People who aren’t involved with insects don’t usually know a whole lot about insects,” said Smith.
