What is it about bugs that fascinate children? When I was a boy I would spend hours in the woods playing & watching them live their life. Now as a father I see my son doing the same things that I did. He will come across an ant hill in the sand and watch them work & of course he has a thousand questions for me. When we had the opportunity to visit the Backyard Monsters Exhibit at the Pequot Museum it seemed like the perfect opportunity to answer some of his harder questions!
When we arrived at the exhibit my son was astounded by the 13’ long fighting Atlas Beetles outside the exhibit. These animated beetles give you a taste of what is to come! Once inside, stop by the Institute of Insect Research for a deeper look into the world of Insects! Our journey didn’t stop there as we made our way over to the giant tarantula (and by the way this isn’t your ordinary spider). My son was astounded, it’s not every day you get to see an 11’ tall, 22’ long & 16’ wide tarantula. He couldn’t believe his eyes! Don’t worry this fellow doesn’t bite, he’s actually quite tame! Once he had his fill we moved through the other attractions, giant carpenter ants, Monarch Butterfly, Tomato Caterpillar. Not only did each animatronic insect light up my son’s eyes but also his curiosity.
After fully inspecting each insect we spent some time driving the Robo Bugs (my personal favorite)! What seemed to 
be my son’s favorite was the insect sounds. Spin the flower and press the button to hear each insect, he loved it! Don’t forget to take some time to see all the actual bug specimens. Ever wondered what the largest Beetle Species is? You can find it all at the Backyard Monsters exhibit!
All of this is included with your museum admission! After we completed the Backyard Monsters exhibit we went back in time to learn about the Pequot tribe & what daily life was like in their village. Learn how they made tools, shelter, weapons and put food on the table. The museum is incredible and I highly recommend taking the entire family. My son and I loved it and you will too.
Exhibit & Upcoming Event details:
- Backyard Monsters – THE WORLD OF INSECTS Feb 15 – May 17th 2014.
- Bugs Alive! March 29, April 12, & May 17th
- It is a Bugs Life April 25th with the Beardsley Zoo
- Bugs & Suds: Saving the World with Insects and Beer May 3rd
What do you think would be your son or daughter’s favorite?
Justin – We are thrilled that you and your son had such a great time at the Pequot Museum. Thanks so much for coming and for sharing your experience online.