At any one time there are between 30 and 35 live species on exhibit in The Bug Room. Because the list of species is always changing, we cannot provide information on every species that is in the gallery at the present. However, information on some of the regular and more popular species is given here. Also check out what is new on the next page.
The Western Black Widow is found from northern Mexico to southern Alberta where it is common in the prairies. These timid spiders occasionally come into the province on shipments of grapes from California and many produce importers and grocery stores have learned to contact the museum when they find this spider.
Tailless Whipscorpion
Tailless Whipscorpion
These bizarre creatures from Tanzania are breeding successfully in their cage. Although there are many individuals in this cage, both adults and young, they can hide very effectively, so a careful search may be needed to find any.
Mexican Red-knee Tarantula
Mexican Red-knee Tarantula
This is our favourite tarantula because it is very attractive and very docile. We always try to have several individuals to allow us to rotate them so that the same one is not in the gallery all the time. We do this because we handle this species regularly and give the public an opportunity to touch the spider's legs and fangs. This is a great opportunity to resolve or prevent a fear of spiders.
Emperor Scorpion
Emperor Scorpion
This is one of the largest scorpions in the world and yet one of the least dangerous. Its sting is supposed to be not much worse than a bad bee sting, but the scorpion tends to defend itself by pinching with its huge claws. Some of our volunteers are used to picking up this scorpion so be sure to ask when you come in for a visit.
Giant African Millipede
Giant African Millipedes
Perhaps the all-time favourite of most visitors, these multi-legged creatures can be handled easily, and it is these that most repeat visitors want to hold.
McLeay’s Spectre Stick
McLeay’s Spectre Sticks
This is another favourite with the public as both the immatures and adult females can be handled. The adult males have functional wings and are prone to flying; so we don’t let the public hold them. This might be the biggest insect you’ll ever have the chance to hold in your hand!
Orchid Mantid
Praying Mantids
As a rule we have up to four species of praying mantids on exhibit, but the species on display may vary from time to time. Some of the regular species include the Orchid Mantid, which is camouflaged to blend in with white or pinkish flowers; the Dead Leaf Mantid which is superbly camouflaged to look like a dead leaf; and the Malaysian Green Mantid which is a classic green mantid. When we are feeding the predators, the volunteer may take one of the mantids out, put it on the lid of the cage and feed it a cricket, giving the visitor an opportunity to watch the mantid eat.
Madagascan Hissing Cockroaches
Madagascan Hissing Cockroaches
This cage can have 300 or more individuals in it. Although cockroaches are probably the most hated insects, most, including this species, are not household pests.
Death-feigning Beetles
Death-feigning Beetles
These neat little beetles have the habit of rolling over on their backs and playing dead if they are disturbed. For this reason they are a great draw, especially amongst the younger visitors when we take the beetles out and let the children handle them.
