Community explores nocturnal insects at MSU blacklighting event

July 08, 2026

More than 80 people attended an MSU blacklighting event to discover and observe nocturnal insects up close.

Visitors gather around illuminated sheets at Beal Botanical Garden, where bright lights attract nocturnal insects for observation.

More than 80 people gathered at Michigan State University’s Beal Botanical Garden for a blacklighting event made possible by the Department of Entomology’s Bug House team. The evening brought the community together to explore the diversity of nocturnal insects and experience science in an accessible, hands-on way.

Hosted by the MSU Department of Entomology and Beal Botanical Garden & Campus Arboretum, the event took place June 20 at sunset. Blacklighting is a common technique used by entomologists to attract nocturnal insects to illuminated sheets, making them easier to observe. Attendees were able to observe attracted insects such as moths, beetles and lacewings up close using microscopes.

Participants were able to see a side of insect life that is rarely visible but happening all around them, discovering the diversity and activity that happens after dark.

Blacklighting group photo June 2026 (1).png — Bug House fellows volunteered to help put on the event at Beal Botanical Garden.

The event was coordinated by Bug House staff, students and volunteers, including Bug House Fellow August Duckworth, a senior studying entomology and events coordinator for the MSU Bug Club. Duckworth worked with teams from Beal Botanical Garden and the Department of Entomology to plan blacklighting locations, logistics and visitor activities. During the event, Duckworth hosted a "Bring Me a Bug!" station featuring tabletop and handheld microscopes, where attendees could bring insects for identification and learn about their biology, ecology and unique characteristics.

"I had an absolute blast at the event," Duckworth said. "I loved being able to interact with all demographics — kids, adults, students, professors and more. I really enjoy sharing my love for insects with the public, especially nocturnal insects, which often aren't well received."

Events like this are part of MSU Entomology's broader outreach efforts through the Bug House to connect the public with insect science and highlight the role insects play in ecosystems, agriculture and everyday life.

“It was really exciting to see how many people were willing to come out so late to see insects!” said Bug House Director Amanda Lorenz. “Events like this are important because they bring the community together around insects in a positive way. Not only did this provide attendees with an opportunity for learning and socializing, it also provided an authentic experience, viewing these animals in a way that is usually only accessible to entomologists.”

The evening also tied into a broader exploration of light and darkness on campus. Artist Jan Tichy’s collaborative exhibition Darkness was created in partnership with people from the Department of Entomology and other campus departments and is on view at the MSU Broad Art Museum through July 26, 2026.