View a video clip of an Insect Zoo visit!
About the Insect Zoo
The Insect Zoo in Iowa State University's Department of Entomology is an outreach program developed to foster an appreciation of insects found in Iowa and throughout the world. Participants can view and interact with live insects and other arthropods. We emphasize the diversity, ecology and behavior of arthropods while the students are exposed to many basic concepts of biology. Participants will learn about interrelationships among diverse insect groups and their important role in life on Earth.
Feel the impact of an up-close and hands-on experience! We have two different options:
All Insect Zoo inquiries must begin by filling out the REQUEST FORM. Only inquiries received via this system will be considered. Using this system will not only put a formal request in for Insect Zoo programming, but it will also provide basic and additional information to you once you have registered (pricing, requirements, lengths, etc.). Filling out the request form DOES NOT contractually lock you into a program!
Option 1:
On Campus Visit
Request Form
The insect zoo is currently housed in the Science II building at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa. Accommodating groups of more than 15 can be difficult and special arrangments will need to be made. Groups of more than 30 are coordinated with other tours on campus allowing visitors to experience other aspects of Iowa State. The Insect Zoo Display Room readily captivates visitors and it is easy to spend up to 45 minutes there. At least 30 minutes per program is suggested. In general, older students ask more questions and require more time to complete a tour.
Those who can't visit our facility can request a traveling Insect Zoo visit. The Insect Zoo covers the entire state of Iowa, bringing exciting entomological concepts to thousands of participants each year.
Option 2:
Insect Zoo Visits
Request Form
The Insect Zoo travels all over Iowa visiting schools, libraries, church groups, Boy/Girl Scouts, and other educational venues. The Insect Zoo can be set up to specifically address certain biological concepts or curriculum requirements. This program was developed by educators and thus encourages the public to maximize its teaching potential.
The insect zoo offers on-site presentations for those who cannot visit our facilities housed at the Iowa State campus. We offer two options, depending on the needs of your group. Please read the following information carefully, and then proceed to the Request Form.
Site Visit Option A: Hands-on presentation, incorporating age-appropriate information. We recommend this option for participants 1st grade through adult ages in a formal educational setting. Trained educators will bring living insects to your school or group and introduce everyone to the exciting world of arthropods. Each presentation requires at least 45-50 minutes and can last up to 90 minutes with older students. Smaller groups allow for more hands-on interaction and thus we strongly enforce a maximum of 30 students per hands-on presentation.
Site Visit Option B: We recommend this option for public and large group settings. The Insect Zoo can set up a number of live and interactive displays for the public to view in a fair-like setting. We provide 1-2 staff members to help with questions and provide an interactive experience as the public views our display.
Fees
Please note that the Insect Zoo charges for all of our programs. For precise quotes, please contact us. We will contact you as soon as possible to set up a date and to answer your questions.
Please note that our geographic range is limited to the state of Iowa.
Contacting the Zoo
Please use our Request Forms to request tours and visits. If you have additional questions, please contact us:
Angela Tague
Educational Program Coordinator
ISU Insect Zoo
409b Science II
Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa 50011
515-294-4537
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Please note that we are often on the road presenting to schools and other groups. We will answer your request as soon as possible. Thank you!