As the vibrant hum of the Bug Squad exhibit at River Legacy Nature Center starts their journey home, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who ventured into this immersive world of insect superheroes. From November 16, 2024, to February 8, 2025, our Discovery Room buzzed with excitement, curiosity, and learning, all thanks to you—our cherished visitors, partners, and supporters.​

A Swarming Success: By the Numbers

The Bug Squad exhibit captivated the imaginations of over 2,000 guests, each exploring the fascinating lives of our six-legged friends. Our website’s popup for the exhibit garnered an impressive 20,000 impressions, reflecting widespread interest and anticipation.​

Grand Opening: A Hive of Activity

The grand opening on November 16, 2024, was a day to remember, with 155 attendees immersing themselves in the world of insect superheroes. Families marveled at animatronic displays, interactive stations, and hands-on activities that highlighted the unique abilities of various insects. Children and adults alike experienced the thrill of jumping like a grasshopper on our trampoline and navigating the intricate tunnels of the ant colony climber. ​

At the grand opening, we premiered an insect photography gallery by Master Naturalist Zachary Chapman, showcasing macro images that highlighted the intricate beauty of the tiny creatures that share our world.

VIP Night: An Exclusive Sneak Peek

Prior to the public unveiling, we hosted a special VIP Night, welcoming 130 guests for an exclusive first look at the exhibit. This evening was made even more delightful through our collaboration with Chick-fil-A North Collins Street, offering attendees a chance to win a gift basket. Each Bug Squad ticket purchased included a raffle entry, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.​

Engaging the Community: Influencers and Media

Our mission to spread the word about Bug Squad was amplified by partnering with local influencers and news sources who shared their experiences across social media platforms, reaching diverse audiences and generating buzz. We are grateful to media outlets such as DFWChild Magazine, Arlington Today Magazine, Fort Worth Moms, Arlington Parks and Recreation, Fox 4 News, the City of Arlington, and to our wonderful team of Instagram influencers for their enthusiastic coverage and support.​

Insect Insights: Educational Presentations

The educational journey extended beyond the exhibit itself, featuring a series of presentations by esteemed speakers:​

• Zachary Chapman, Master Naturalist and Insect Photographer, captivated audiences with his insights into insect life on January 4, 2025.​
• Sam Kieschnick from Texas Parks and Wildlife shared his expertise on February 8, 2025, deepening our understanding of local insect species.​
• Dianna Aston, award-winning children’s book author, delighted young readers with a special storytime session on December 7, 2024.​
• Kimberlee Petersen from Texas A&M Tree Service explored the intricate relationships between insects and trees during her presentation on February 8, 2025.​

A Word from Our Marketing Coordinator

From a marketing perspective, Bug Squad was truly a full-scale campaign.

According to Marketing Coordinator Brittni Greenberg, “We centered all of our marketing efforts around bugs while the exhibit was here. Whether it was Creature Features showcasing Walking Sticks, guest speakers discussing insects, or family-friendly activities, we wanted to create an all-encompassing experience. We even designed a photo opportunity featuring monarch butterfly wings in the atrium, where children could stand in front of them and take pictures as if they had their own set of wings. Everywhere you looked for months—it was all about bugs.”

Media Buzz: Fox 4 News and City of Arlington

The exhibit’s allure caught the attention of Fox 4 News, leading to an engaging segment that showcased the interactive elements of Bug Squad. Reporter Paige Ellenberger’s enthusiasm was palpable as she navigated the ant tunnel and highlighted the exhibit’s educational value. The City of Arlington further amplified our reach by producing video interviews in both English and Spanish, ensuring the exhibit’s wonders were accessible to a broader audience.

A Garden of Gratitude: Our Sponsors and Partners

The success of Bug Squad was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors and partners:​

• Wells Fargo: As a visiting exhibit sponsor, their contribution was instrumental in bringing this exhibit to life.​
• Annual Sponsors: Their unwavering support ensures that we continue to offer enriching programs and exhibits to our community.​
• Omaha Children’s Museum: We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to host Bug Squad, a testament to their commitment to engaging, educational experiences. ​

Looking Ahead: A Mysterious Encounter Awaits

As we bid farewell to Bug Squad, we are already spinning our webs with preparations for our next visiting exhibit, scheduled from November 2025 to February 2026. While we won’t reveal the details just yet, here’s a riddle to pique your curiosity:​

“Eight legs I have, but I’m not a spider; with pincers I snip, a nocturnal insider. What am I?”

Stay tuned to uncover the answer and embark on another journey of discovery with us.

In Closing: Our Heartfelt Thanks

To every visitor, partner, sponsor, volunteer, and staff member, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your enthusiasm and support transformed Bug Squad from an exhibit into a vibrant community experience. We look forward to continuing this journey of exploration and education with you in the years to come.

Thank you for helping us make Bug Squad an unforgettable experience. Until next time—keep exploring, keep discovering, and stay curious! 🐞🌿