Don’t Miss These Giant Bugs Invading The John Ball Zoo

Don’t panic, but a swarm of giant bees, butterflies, and other oversized bugs is taking over John Ball Zoo.

Fortunately, they’re animatronic, adorable, and totally on a mission to educate.

It’s all part of the Zoo’s new interactive exhibit, The Power of Pollinators, where more than 20 larger-than-life mechanical insects will buzz, flutter, and wiggle their way into your heart (and your camera roll.)

These aren’t your regular-sized backyard bugs. They’re colorful, noisy, and built to teach guests of all ages about the tiny creatures that keep our ecosystems running.

The exhibit opens July 14th and runs through November 23rd. And, even better- it's included with regular Zoo admission.

Along with buzzing bots, you’ll also find climbable statues, fun photo ops, and local conservation stories, including a spotlight on the endangered Poweshiek skipperling, a native Michigan butterfly the Zoo is working hard to protect and restore.

Why the big fuss over small insects? Because pollinators like bees and butterflies are essential to flowering plants and food crops, and they need our help.

Visitors will leave not just entertained, but inspired to plant native flowers, skip the pesticides, and get involved in community efforts like the Zoo’s Habitat Hero program.

NEXT: New animals that joined the John Ball Zoo in 2024 ⬇️

So yes, the pollinators are coming, and they’re fabulous. Don’t miss your chance to see the buzziest takeover in Grand Rapids this summer. For details on The Power of Pollinators exhibit or to join the conservation fun, you can visit the John Ball Zoo’s website for more information.