Our Nighttime Jewels: Discover The Moths of Vermont With JoAnne Russo and The Nature Museum

Did you know that some moths have ears on their abdomens? Vermont has about 2000 species of moths, all with fascinating adaptations to help them thrive in flight and at night. Join entomologist JoAnne Russo and The Nature Museum on June 14 for an illustrated introduction to the world of moths, and you'll learn to identify the moths visiting your porch light this summer!

On Thursday, June 14 at 7:30 PM at the Grafton Trails and Outdoor Center, Vermont Entomological Society member JoAnne Russo presents "Moths: Our Nighttime Jewels," an informative talk accompanied by rich macro photographs of beautiful moths. The talk will be followed by a flashlight field session. We will explore the area with flashlights and headlamps (bring one if you have it), looking for caterpillars and moths. Don't forget to bring your camera! The Nature Museum is exhibiting JoAnne's detailed drawings of moths until June 21.

Space is limited for "Moths: Our Nighttime Jewels," so register early! Tickets are a suggested donation of $7 in advance and $10 at the door. Visit www.nature-museum.org to purchase your tickets, or call 802-843-2111.

Since childhood, JoAnne Russo had been fascinated by insects, but bugs were not allowed in the house. For decades, JoAnne's focus was her career in basketmaking: her sculptural work is in a number of museums around the world. After a cancer diagnosis is 2014, JoAnne began to dive into her passions, including her childhood fascination with bugs. She began to explore lepidoptery: the study of moths! For over 10 years, JoAnne had been building her "yard list" of moth species with online sources and field guides. In 2014, after taking Lepidoptera courses from experts Hugh McGuinness and Jason Dombroskie at Eagle Hill in Maine, she became more obsessed, learning through microscopic study and dissection. The more she learns about moths, the more she needs to share these discoveries with others!

The Nature Museum creates experiences that engage and enlighten audiences of all ages, and inspire stewardship of our natural world through natural history exhibits, nature programs for adults and children, and the annual Fairy House Festival. The Nature Museum is also hosting a special plant sale on Sunday, June 10: All proceeds benefit the Museum! Learn more at www.nature-museum.org.

Photo: Rosy Maple Moth. Learn More On June 14 At The Nature Museum's Moth Program.