Insect Zoo
Showcasing over 100 species of live arthropod ambassadors, the University of Maryland Insect Zoo provides a unique opportunity for the community to learn about the diversity of arthropods and their importance in our ecosystems. The Insect Zoo offers a hands-on, curiosity-driven way to explore insect biodiversity and understand the important roles these small animals play in our world.
Signature Event: Maryland Day
The Insect Petting Zoo at Maryland Day, held annually on the last Saturday of April at the University of Maryland's College Park campus, is our flagship event. We pull out all the stops to present amazing exhibits and showcase every bug in the Insect Zoo. Visitors can:
- Touch and hold exotic insects
- Watch live demonstrations
- Explore themed exhibits
- Meet entomologists and student volunteers
Outreach Programming
The Insect Zoo actively conducts programming onsite and offsite. Whether it’s a classroom visit, community event, science fair, open house or agricultural festival, our team brings live arthropods and expert presenters to educate and ignite an interest in insects with groups of all ages. If you are interested in planning an outreach event with us, please email insectzoo@umd.edu.
Live Feedings
Every semester, we feature a new arthropod in our display cabinet on the 2nd floor lobby, Hornbake Plaza side, of the Plant Sciences Building. Stop by to see:
- Live feedings
- Q&A sessions with caretakers
- Up-close views of rare and beautiful insects
Past displays include a pair of Orchid Mantises, Tobacco Hornworm, and Golden Orb Weavers. Stay tuned to @UMDentomology on Instagram to find out when we launch a new display.
Meet Our Insects
The arthropods we have at the Insect Zoo vary seasonally, but here are a few visitor favorites you can meet year-round.
Meet Our Staff
Todd Waters
As the Insect Zoo Manager, Todd plays a crucial role in helping the department foster an appreciation for insects in the wider community. “People go from being afraid of bugs and swearing they will never hold something to not being able to leave the table because they’re having such a great time. It seems like they’re having a profound change of mind,” Todd told The Diamondback in 2022. With his help, the Insect Zoo is capturing the hearts and minds of residents across the D.C. region, even the most trepidatious.
Ryan Lee
As the Insect Zoo Care Technician, Ryan keeps our arthropods healthy. He brings a remarkable passion for arthropods and helps educate and inspire people to overcome their fears and develop a deeper understanding for insects. Tattoos of his favorite arthropods cover his arms and he’s been keeping bugs since he was 11 years old. He has kept 200+ species of amphibians, reptiles, and arthropods at home and he is the unofficial expert for insect and arachnid breeding, recently pairing up our Giant Vinegaroons and Honduran Curly Hair Tarantulas.