It all started in 1997 in the bug-loving town of Victoria, BC, Canada. Fueled by a curious mind and a deep love for nature — especially bees, insects, and arachnids (the misunderstood superheroes of the natural world) — passionate entomologist Carol Maier launched a hands-on space where people could learn about, admire, and meet living giant tropical "bugs" from around the world.

Over time, it grew into the largest tropical insect collection on the planet.

The goal? To open minds (and compound eyes!) to the incredible world of entomology through education, fun, creativity — and a little bit of hands-on bug magic. 🧙‍♀️🕷️

There’s nothing quite like an eye-to-eye encounter with a fuzzy wuzzy tarantula!

The original Bug Zoo quickly became a must-see destination — a truly buzz-worthy experience for families, schools, and curious minds of all ages.

Starting in 2023, that same spirit lives on online through International Bug Zoos Inc., also known as @BugZooInc. (You found us!)

Today, we’re spreading bug hugs virtually around the globe with engaging blogs, bug-tastic art, curious critter facts, games, eBooks, and as many buggy adventures as we can dream up!

Whether you’re a tiny tot obsessed with beetles, a high school science whiz, or a teacher building a bug-themed classroom experience of your own — you’re in the right place.

Because the world needs more bug lovers.

And we’re here to help you become one. 💚🪲

This business has legs… and compound eyes! 🐜

We're building a global community of bug lovers, educators, artists, explorers, and lifelong learners. Subscribe to the Bug Blog and join us on this adventure — full of new discoveries and bug-tastic experiences for all ages.

We're always exploring bold new ideas in:

🕷️ Entomology & Arachnology

🌱 Nature-based learning & ecotourism

🎨 Bug-inspired art, storytelling, and education

Interested in launching a Bug Zoo in your community?

We’d love to connect with passionate people looking to bring the Bug Zoo experience to life in new locations.

📬 Contact us to learn more about franchise opportunities and partnerships.

Note: The original Bug Zoo location in Victoria, BC, is no longer affiliated with International Bug Zoos Inc. and is not authorized to use the “Bug Zoo” trademark.

Meet the Praying Mantis: a master of disguise, elegance, and lightning-fast precision. With folded “praying” forelegs and alien-like eyes, these captivating insects have fascinated people for centuries.

In the spiritual traditions of the San (Bushmen) of southern Africa, the mantis is no ordinary bug. Known as !Kaggen, it is a sacred symbol, a creator, and a trickster.

"To look into the face of a praying mantis is to gaze into the face of God."

That’s high praise for an insect.

With over 2,400 species worldwide, mantises thrive in rainforests, grasslands, and gardens. They use binocular vision and a rotating triangular head to track prey with uncanny accuracy. When they strike, it’s fast, silent, and precise.

Some look like sticks or leaves. Others mimic flowers or wear vibrant colors. Every mantis is a beautifully evolved ambush hunter, shaped by millions of years of natural artistry.

Whether you see them as nature’s stealthy assassins, a garden’s secret guardian, or a spiritual symbol of transformation and stillness, one thing’s for sure: You’ll never forget the moment you lock eyes with one.

So go ahead, lock eyes. You might just find yourself... praying for more. 🙏👑