Explore the little things the run the world.
Our field trips, exhibits and education programs at the Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium stimulate learning and curiosity through hands-on, interactive experiences with some of our amazing animals – introducing visitors to the incredible world of insects and leaving them with a deep and lasting impression and a desire to learn more.
Schools & Youth Groups
Field Trips
Field trips to the Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium provide participants with a chance to learn about "the little things that run the world" as they investigate, explore, experiment, observe, build, and more. Field trips are designed with extensive input from area teachers and address grade level appropriate Montana state science standards. Curiosity and critical thinking skills are at the core of each field trip as we work to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the world of arthropods.
Distance Learning
No matter where you live or how your school year is unfolding, engaging and powerful programs are just a click away. Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium educators introduce students to amazing Bug Ambassadors and give them remarkable experiences, without ever leaving the classroom.
Bugs on the Move
The “Bugmobile” brings bugs and educators to schools, homes, and meeting halls all across the region!
Let the bugs come to you! Bugs on the Move is an exciting opportunity to bring Bug Ambassadors and experienced educators into classrooms, homes, and meeting halls in the Missoula area. Teachers can choose from a comprehensive list of programs that are designed to support NGSS standards and engage students in the world of arthropods. All the excitement and impact of a field trip, no bus required.
Children & Family Programs
Family Learning
The Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium firmly believes that learning doesn’t end just because you don’t spend most of your day in a formal classroom anymore. Yes kids, the adults in your life love learning new things too! Towards that end MBHI will be hosting a series of family learning events where intergenerational groups can explore, play, and learn together.
Online Bug Encounters
Join us every Wednesday at 1:00 PM as we go live with some of your favorite Bug Ambassadors. Tune in for each encounter, as we’ll be covering a different topic, with new critters, every time.
To catch our videos live, check out our Facebook page! Or click the button below to view past videos.
Adult Programs
Bugs & Brews
What happens when you mix local beers and a fascinating expert bug lecturer? You get the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium’s evening lecture series: “Bugs and Brews”! Each month we host a new expert lecturer to discuss a fascinating topic relating to bugs. Some of our past talks have been on Animal Weapons, Pests, Native Bees, Sea Spiders and more! We want to give a huge THANK YOU to our primary sponsor of our unique lecture series: Draught Works!
Volunteer
The Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium can thrive thanks to our amazing volunteers. Volunteers come from all walks of life and with a range of experiences. From UM students, to retirees, to working parents; with a background in wildlife biology or a great curiosity and desire to learn about insects and their relatives. Volunteers help with a variety of activities. Whether you’re interested in education or animal care (or anything in-between!), there is a role for you!
Bug Appetit
A unique and adventurous dining journey into entomophagy (otherwise known as "the eating of insects as food." This one-of-a-kind dinner offers attendees the opportunity to enjoy a four course meal prepared by a local chef, all while helping raise needed funds for the Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium. Held only once a year, this is an event you don't want to miss!