Bugs represent the largest group of animals on Earth! They account for at least 75% of all known animal species and without them, larger animals could not exist. While insects can destroy crops, spread disease, and be a nuisance, they clean up environmental waste, pollinate many flowering plants and provide the food necessary for larger animals to survive!
Assembled by our entomologists, the Insect Preservatory contains several hundred preserved insect specimens. It showcases some of the largest, most beautiful, and most biologically interesting bugs in the world. Insects from every continent except Antarctica are represented in the Preservatory, including all sorts of beetles, stick insects, praying mantises, flies, wasps, and many more!
Venomous Habitats
Coming face-to-face with an 8-legged killer can create a thrill like no other. Showcasing some of the most venomous insects and arachnids in the world, individuals like the Brazilian Wandering Spider and Spotted Assassin Bugs can be seen lurking! These dangerous predators demonstrate their efficient hunting skills while also displaying their unique beauty.
Jewels Habitats
Beauty can come in all shapes and sizes. From the dazzling elytra of the Rainbow Stag Beetle to the iridescent wings of our Dead Leaf Mantis’, you can see that beauty is not confined to a strict set of colors or patterns. Mesmerized by their displays, it may be difficult to look away, and it is best that you don’t! You just might miss the opportunity to see a brilliant show like no other.
Giants Habitats
Long ago insects were known to reach sizes of great measure. Today when we think of bugs, we imagine the little ant crawling across the sidewalk or the small house spider. But many of these large wonders still exist! From stick insects longer than your forearm to beetles larger than your hands, these individuals will astound even the most creative of minds. These elegant giants move gracefully through their environments, at times making it difficult to know they are there.
Bug Bungalow
Hidden amongst the leaves and branches these cunning insects will rest and feed. Blending seamlessly with their environment even the most trained eye might struggle to find the Leaf Insects perched within the trees. We are surrounded by such amazing diversity, but we may not know where to look for it! The Stag Beetle tucked away under the brush or the Flower Mantis posed within the gardens, these individuals will never cease to amaze.
Leaf Cutter Labyrinth
Some may walk, some may jump, and yet some may fly, but the way the insect species of the world live together mirrors that of a ballet. From the majestic calls of the Malaysian Katydids to the intricate gardens of the Leaf Cutter Ants, a masterpiece is in the works.
