Giant Insects Invade Arizona

Arizona Science Center’s latest featured exhibition, “The World of Giant Insects,” opens May 28 and will be on display through Sept. 5, 2016. The gigantic insects are manufactured in Los Angeles by Kokoro Exhibits using the latest robotic technology and are powered by a computer-controlled air compressor that gives each insect its own unique sequence of movement and sound.

“Insects are very important for several reasons. There are over 1 million species and are the most diverse group of organisms on earth! This exhibition will engage, educate and entertain our guests on the many facets of these important species,” says Chevy Humphrey, president and CEO of Arizona Science Center.

Six larger-than-life sized insects, including a praying mantis, a desert locust, two atlas beetles, a stick insect and a swallowtail caterpillar will be featured in the exhibition. Kokoro Exhibits designs each new creature through consultation with scientists at museums and universities throughout the United States and Canada. Because scientists are continually gathering new information on insects, the models and accompanying information are updated constantly to ensure authenticity.

“Guests will feel really, really, really small while walking among these giant animatronic insects! ‘The World of Giant Insects’ encourages exploration, and we are hoping guests will learn a little something new about the insects featured and leave with a new respect and curiosity for all insects. This exhibition highlights how insects are truly amazing, and without them and the diverse roles they play in our world, our lives would be vastly different,” says Sari Custer, vice president of exhibits and collections.

desert locust

The World of Giant Insects is a production of Kokoro Exhibits, and is sponsored locally by APS. It is located in Sybil B. Harrington Galleries. 

The World of Giant Insects

May 28 – Sept. 5, 2016
Arizona Science Center
600 E. Washington St., Phoenix
Tickets/More Info