Insect fan entertains guests at Bug Lab
Auckland Zoo is hosting a bugthemed evening on February 14, where lovers of their fellow humans and wildlife will be wined, dined and entertained.
Love Bugs has been inspired by the science exhibition Bug Lab, a co-creation of Te Papa and Weta Workshop, now showing at the Zoo.
The evening, which supports the Zoo’s conservation work, features a five-course degustation menu, live performances by bug lover and singer-song writer Julia Deans, plus exclusive entry to Bug Lab.
‘‘I’ve always been fascinated by bugs and spiders,’’ Deans said. ‘‘These intricate, tiny creatures and their alien lives fill vital roles in our world, and their value and beauty is often undervalued. But don’t get me wrong, I’m bloody glad they’re not bigger!’’
Deans will sing old and new songs, including from her upcoming album Clandestine.
The evening will also feature special guest, Te Papa’s ‘bug man,’ Dr Phil Sirvid, one of the scientists behind Bug Lab, who will be sharing his guide to the love lives of some of the world’s most extraordinary bugs.
‘‘Music, dance, scent and
‘‘We humans think we know about the art of love, but bugs have been at it for over 400 million years.’’
Phil Sirvid
impressing with gifts are all part of bug seduction. Bugs offer plenty of examples of how to succeed in the mating game, but some of it you most definitely should not try at home!’’
In addition, an Auckland Zoo bug expert will talk about one of Aotearoa’s most threatened bugs, the we¯ ta¯ punga, for which it is leading a successful recovery programme. To date, more than 3000 have been released on pest-free Hauraki Gulf islands Tiritiri Matangi, Motuora, and The Noises – Otata and Motuhorapapa islands, with more to be released in coming months.
As well seeing and hearing about bugs and exploring the magical and highly interactive Bug Lab exhibition, bugs – one of nature’s greatest, most sustainable and increasingly popular super foods - will feature on the five-course degustation menu. To please all palates, guests will also have vegetarian options to choose from.