CBG Joins the Buzz: Celebrating Insects at Guelph Bug Day

The Centre for Biodiversity Genomics has no shortage of researchers who think insects are fascinating, and at this year’s Guelph Bug Day, we were in good company.

The ninth annual Guelph Bug Day event took place on Sunday, August 24, in the University of Guelph’s Summerlee Science Complex Waasamowin atrium. From live insect displays to hands-on activities related to insect collection and identification, Guelph Bug Day offered a unique chance to see the natural world from a whole new perspective. CBG staff were on hand to share their passion and expertise, guiding visitors through the fascinating diversity of insect life and showcasing just how important bugs are to both nature and people.

“Events like Bug Day are a fantastic way to spark curiosity and appreciation for biodiversity,” said Aleksandra Dolezal, CBG staff member and Guelph Bug Day co-organizer. “Whether it’s kids facing their fears holding a tarantula, or adults learning about the DNA barcoding work at CBG, there’s always a moment of wonder.”

This year’s program reflected the growing popularity of the event, blending fan favourites with exciting new additions. Visitors enjoyed the Amazing Arachnids booth, cockroach races, edible insect tastings, insect crafts, face painting, and guided walks, while new highlights included tours of the University’s new Honeybee Research Facility, and Metamorphosis—a Bug Day drag show that brought art and science together.

CBG staff played a key role throughout the day. At the Forest Hike in the University of Guelph’s Dairy Bush, families searched for hidden critters under logs and in leaf litter, while CBG experts offered identification tips. “With butterfly nets swinging and smiles all around, the event turned an ordinary summer day into a celebration of the extraordinary world of insects,” said Reid Harrop, CBG staff member and hike leader.

“It was very rewarding being able to share so many niche bug facts with people while leading the hikes,” added fellow hike leader and CBG staff member, Natalia Ganson. “I especially enjoyed helping to shift people’s perspectives on wasps and other insects with negative public perceptions. It’s always fun changing people’s minds and seeing smiles on their faces when they learn something new.”

The CBG team were also stationed inside to help teach children and youth about DNA barcoding through hands-on activities and crafts to engage participants. Robert Pohorilyj, a previous CBG work-study student, helped prepare a DNA barcoding activity to teach children about nucleotides – the building blocks of DNA! Additionally, Amy Thompson and Alisha Soares, both CBG staff members in the Genomics Unit, introduced participants to common lab tools, like the pipette. Children then used pipettes to create their own watercolour art, giving them a fun, hands-on way to blend science and creativity.

“It was wonderful to see children so captivated by the insects and butterflies at our booth,” said Esmaeil Babaeian, CBG Taxonomist. “Their curiosity and enthusiasm were inspiring, making the day a truly memorable experience.”

For many families, Guelph Bug Day has become a cherished annual tradition. “My family always blocks off the date as soon as we see it posted”, said a Bug Day participant who stopped by the CBG booth. “My daughter [age 6] keeps telling me she wants to be an entomologist – a term she learned here after speaking with researchers”.

Looking ahead, the team plans to scale up the event even further, with new exhibitors and more workshops throughout the day, ensuring the day is welcoming and accessible to everyone. The aim remains the same: to encourage curiosity, care for the natural world, and inspire the bug researchers of tomorrow.