National Insect Week
Buzz on over to the zoo for National Insect Week June 24-30! Explore the incredible world of insects and discover the tiny marvels that make a big impact on our planet. From the dazzling displays of butterfly aviary to the intricate ecosystems of leaf cutter ants, there’s something for every bug enthusiast. Get up close and personal with a variety of critters, enjoy informational booths and learn from our expert keepers about the crucial roles these creatures play in our environment. Join us for a week of (not so) creepy-crawly fun!
Guests can purchase a Cincinnati Zoo insect shirt, and insect plushies and enjoy a “dirt cup” at Savannah Soft Serve and Mai Thai’s Market in the Grab & Go area!
Schedule of Events
Monday, June 24 – Sunday, June 30
Participate in our Bioblitz and Big Bug Contest for a chance to win a behind the scenes tour at the World of the Insect!
Bioblitz
- Take pictures of insects around the tristate area and upload them to iNaturalist.
- The person who takes pictures of the most species will win a Behind-The-Scenes tour at the World of the Insect!
- Enter here
Big Bug Contest
- Can you find the biggest bug around? Between June 24 and June 30, take a picture of the largest insect you can find in your neighborhood (must be a native insect).
- The person who finds and photographs the largest insect will receive a behind the scenes tour at the World of the Insect!
- Post it on Social Media (Instagram, Facebook, X) with the #bigbugcinci to participate.
Contest runs June 24-June 30, 2024.
Friday, June 28 – Sunday, June 30
- 11:30am – Keeper Chats with a World of the Insect Keeper
- 1:30pm: Meet an animal at World of the Insect that utilizes insects as food:
- Friday: Opal the opossum
- Saturday: Lily the skunk
- Sunday: Arlo the savannah monitor
- Dress like an Insect: make your very own Insect Antennae!