Insect Palooza

Visit the Howard County Bird Club table at the Insect Palooza and participate in all of the other events.

The University of Maryland (UMD) Extension, Home and Garden Information Center has been collaborating with the UMD Insect Zoo and the Harriet Tubman Center to organize this inaugural event. The goal is to raise awareness and appreciation for insects for all attendees. They recognize that people have a wide range of experiences and comfort levels with insects, and this event is designed to help individuals explore their personal connection to these animals in a way that is approachable and engaging.

Another objective of this event is to create positive experiences around insects and environmental science, laying the foundation for more inclusive and engaging learning environments. Through hands-on activities and interactions with live arthropods, they aim to spark curiosity and build connections between insects, sustainable horticulture, and the many essential roles insects play in our ecosystems.

This year’s event will include:

• The University of Maryland Insect Zoo, featuring live arthropods to see, touch, and/or hold
• Insect-themed crafts and hands-on activities
• Educational displays and local environmental organizations, including the Community Ecology Institute (CEI)
• Howard County Master Gardeners from the pollinator committee, sharing information about pollinating insects