Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, with its expansive children’s garden, array of special programs and numerous photo ops, has long been a family favorite for Richmonders. Now, through Sept. 5th, there is another reason to visit the garden. The new exhibit, The Secret Life of Bugs, teaches garden patrons about a variety of insects, even allowing for close-ups with them!
When our children spotted the exhibit, they ran straight for it. The garden volunteer welcomed us as she presented first a crayfish, explaining to the kids how it very much resembles a small lobster. Allowing time for the kids to thoroughly examine the bugs and providing magnifying glasses added to our experience.
Next, we saw wood louse, which the knowledgeable volunteer explained is a crustacean like the crayfish. Each insect has a corresponding card with further information about its habitat, feeding habits, origination and other fun facts.
Then, was the black widow! Mary, Lewis Ginter’s Exhibition Assistant, answered every one of my daughter’s questions about these frightening arachnids! Wondering how Mary was able to trap the black widow, Mary explained that black widows are actually quite unlikely to bite, but rather, more likely to run. While this was reassuring news, I was surely relieved these insects would NOT be coming out! Still, it was cool to see the black widow and its eggs; definitely a first for all of us!
We marveled at each of the following insects and their unique traits: the Milkweed Tussock Moth that makes an ultrasonic signal to deter its predators, bats. The luna moth that uses its tail to act as a decoy to predators. And, the sphinx moth, which was discovered by a child during this week’s summer camp and named Midnight Luna.
Our children were so enamored with this exhibit that we actually visited twice during our time at the garden. Families of young children will appreciate the informality – stay for as long or as short as you like. Children are free to ask questions. The Secret Life of Bugs adds to an already educational, nature-filled day at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
The Secret Life of Bugs is on display Thursdays – Sundays, 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. through Sept. 5th. It is included with garden admission which also features 50 acres of spacious outdoor gardens including include a Healing Garden, Fountain Garden, Asian Valley and Victorian Garden.
📍 Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is located at 1800 Lakeside Ave., Richmond, Virginia 23228
⏰ 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; later on Wednesday & Thursdays in summer
💰 $14 adults; $8 ages 3-12; children under 3 FREE
🛒 The entire place is stroller friendly
🎫 Membership pays for itself if you visit more than twice
— By Lindsay Garrison
Lindsay Garrison is a Richmond, Virginia based Mom to two young children. A graduate from Chesterfield Schools and Randolph-Macon College, Lindsay is proud to call Richmond home. In the years prior to planning activities and outings with her own children, she was a French teacher. During her tenure she earned accolades for her creative teaching style and ability to connect with her students. Lindsay now applies the skills she learned when she was planning student trips to France, to her own family adventures. She can’t wait to take her own children to France one day! Follow the Garrison’s family adventures on Instagram: @thegarrisonsrva
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