Vacation Plans Buggin’ You? (NAPSA)}—What’sthe latest buzz on a vacation destination where the entire family can relax, interact and enjoy themselves—for free? Many families are making their way to the O. Orkin Insect Zoo, part of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. The Insect Zoo has an impressive collection of a live insects from all over the world, including bizarre giant walking sticks, colorful lubber grasshoppers and even tarantulas. With more than 2,000,000 visitors annually, the Insect Zoo teaches the importance of insects and their interdependent relationship with humans. Housed in one of the most visited museums in the world, the Insect Zoo is a popular destinationforall. “Tt’s fascinating to see the awe and wonderon children’s faces as they touch their first tarantula,” said Nate Erwin, manager of the O. Orkin Insect Zoo. “Visitors of all ages enjoy the excitement and entertainment the Smithsonian’s Insect Zoo offers, while simultane- ously learning from a distinguished educational facility.” From the hunting characteristics of the jumping spider to the protective camouflage of the leaf insect, the Insect Zoo offers a wealth of knowledge and fun. Visitors can explore the zoo and learn about the high reproductive rates and short lifespansof insects, as well as: * Witness tarantula feedings. See 65 species of live insects. Watch an active honeybee colony. * Touch andhold live insects, such as the Madagascar hissing cockroach, the giant millipede or the tomato hornworm caterpillar. Another popular exhibit is the house replica, which allows visitors The Smithsonian O. Orkin Insect Zoo teaches visitors the impor- tance of insects and their relationship with humans. to gain an insect’s perspective into our world and homes. The house replica even shows how insects hitch a ride into homes—on clothing, pets, firewood andfood. Orkin, Inc. is the sole sponsor for the Insect Zoo, the product of a 20-year partnership between the pest control company and the National Museum of Natural History. The corporation wasthefirst to sponsor any permanent exhibit at the Smithsonian. “We are proud of our partnership with the renowned Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of Natural History,” said Orkin President Glen Rollins. “While our corporation focuses on keeping customers’ homes insect-free, we acknowledge their importance in the world and are committed to serving the greater community through education.” For more information about the Smithsonian O. Orkin Insect Zoo or on Orkin, Inc., visit www. mnh.si.edu or www.Orkin.com.
