Insects: The Ancient Ones

For over 450 million years, insects have been an integral part of terrestrial ecosystems, surviving several mass extinctions that have nearly wiped out life on the planet. The evolution of the diversity of the insects we see today is a fascinating story. Join Entomolgist Nate Erwin—who for 20 years managed the Smithsonian Institution’s “Insect Zoo” and “Butterfly Pavilion”—for a presentation rich in closeup images of familiar (and not-so-familiar) insects of eastern North America.

Free and open to the public. Sponsored by the Dukes Soil Conservation District.

After 5 years as a forest pest entomologist with the State of Maryland and 4 years as staff member with the Rachel Carson Council, Inc., Nate Erwin curated the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of Natural History “Insect Zoo” from 1992-2012. During his time with the Smithsonian, he also worked with a team to develop the popular “Partners in Evolution: Butterflies and Plants” exhibit that opened in 2008, and worked with Costa Rican butterfly farmers to expand their insect husbandry efforts to include non-lepidopteran insects. Currently, he consults with clients on bugscaping their properties; and consults with the USDA on stink bug research projects. He continues to work with the Smithsonian Institution presenting workshops and lectures. Nate has appeared on National Geographic, BBC, Discovery, National Public Radio, the Late Night Show, and local and national news.