Help Support the UMD Insect Zoo
The University of Maryland Insect Zoo sparks scientific curiosity through engaging, hands-on discovery. Our USDA-permitted facility houses over 85 live species - from tarantulas and scorpions to ants and giant leaf bugs - introducing thousands of community members to the wonders of STEM.
Beyond outreach, the Zoo serves as a vital campus engine for student success. We provide UMD students with real-world leadership and mentorship opportunities through our outreach programming, while hosting the Bug Club, a thriving student organization dedicated to science and public service. Central to our mission is educational equity: we prioritize free and low-cost programming for Title I schools and regional communities, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to hands-on science.
The Impact & Need
In 2026 alone, our team led 80 outreach events, reaching over 10,000 people across Maryland - from the Eastern Shore to Garrett County. Facing overwhelming demand, we need your support to sustain our student workforce, care for our live animal collection, and expand our reach to schools that need us most.
How You Can Help
DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT: Thanks to a generous donor, the first $5,000 raised will be matched dollar-for-dollar!
Your gift directly empowers UMD student leaders, maintains vital animal care, and brings interactive STEM experiences to underserved classrooms. Our primary goal this campaign is to secure funding for at least 20 Title I school visits at zero cost to the schools.
Join us in inspiring the next generation of Terp scientists - make your tax-deductible gift today!
$10
Roly-Poly
Your donations help the Insect Zoo keep rolling! This level supplies a whole week of fresh greens, fruits, and veggies for our hungry herbivores.
$25
Glowspot
Glowspot roaches have 2 bright orange spots on their back. Your donation helps our Insect Zoo with its next "Glow Up"—funding a brand-new critter keeper terrarium!
$50
Beetle Grub
Keep our grubs thriving! This level covers the raw materials to brew a batch of fermented flake soil substrate—helping our giant Hercules beetle grubs grow massive and support their metamorphosis in a major way.
$100
Walking Sticks
Did you know Maryland is home to the Northern Walking Stick (Diapheromera femorata)? Your $100 gift helps us travel to schools across the state, bringing hands-on insect education to rural and Title 1 classrooms free of charge.
$200
Jumping Spider
Power a new project! Fully equip a student-led effort to acquire, house, and breed jumping spiders for live school demonstrations.
$1,000
Rosie's Club
Your donation helps keep Rosie, our 21-year old Chilean Rose Tarantula, and her friends on the move.