We're all here to learn

The BUGmobile brings live arthropods, hands-on learning and Ohio State insect education to your school, library, community event or group space. Look closely, ask questions and interact at your own comfort level.

You don't have to love bugs to enjoy the BUGmobile

Some visitors are excited to meet insects. Others feel nervous. Both are welcome. Our educators create a calm, friendly experience where visitors can observe, ask questions and decide how hands-on they want to be.

No one is required to touch or hold an insect.

What happens during a visit

1 We arrive and set up

The BUGmobile team brings the mobile learning space to your site and prepares the live arthropod displays and activity areas.

2 Visitors meet the arthropods

Guests may see insects and other arthropods from the Columbus Insectary collection, such as walkingsticks, millipedes, beetles, roaches or other ambassador animals.

3 Educators guide the experience

Ohio State entomologists help visitors look closely, ask questions and learn how arthropods live, move, eat and support the world around us.

4 Hands-on moments are optional

Some visits may include safe opportunities to touch or hold selected arthropods. Visitors can always choose to watch instead.

5 Everyone leaves knowing more

The goal is simple: help people replace fear with curiosity and see bugs in a new way.

Big lessons from small creatures

During a BUGmobile visit, guests may learn:

  • What makes an insect an insect
  • How arthropods protect themselves
  • Why decomposers, pollinators and predators matter
  • How insects support food webs and ecosystems
  • What common bug myths get wrong
  • How scientists study insects and other arthropods

For teachers and group leaders

Help your group get ready. Before the visit, let your group know they will meet living animals and learn how to observe them respectfully. Encourage visitors to ask questions, use gentle voices and follow educator instructions.

Helpful reminders:

  • Visitors should listen to BUGmobile educators before touching any animal.
  • Some animals are for looking only.
  • Food and drinks should stay away from the animal displays.
  • Photos may be allowed, but flash photography may be limited near some animals.
  • Students and guests can participate without touching insects.

Making the visit work for your group

Tell us about accessibility needs, sensory needs or other group considerations when you request your visit. We will do our best to create a comfortable learning experience for your audience.

Frequently asked questions

What kinds of arthropods will we see?

What you see at the BUGmobile changes depending on what kind of visit you've scheduled or if we are teaching to a particular curriculum standard. We have arthropods ranging from tiny little termites to a large tarantula. Get ready to see a range of our amazing animals.

What does our site need to provide?

We'll need space to park our custom Airstream and a power source. There is a bit of time to move our animals into the exhibit space, so please allow set-up time.

Is there a cost?

To bring the BUGmobile to you, yes. We are a non-profit organization and our fees cover the cost of educational materials, transportation and caring for our animals. Read more on the BUGmobile Visit Fees page.

Can the program connect to our classroom topic?

Absolutely. Connect with our program director to share what you're learning and we'll bring educational programming to enrich their classroom experience.

What is the difference between the BUGmobile and the Wooster Bug Zoo?

Well, first off, location. Our BUGmobile travels around central Ohio. The Bug Zoo is located in Wooster, Ohio. Both outreach spaces provide up-close views of our insect world along with some interesting facts that will help you appreciate how insects impact our world.