For many Bobcats, playing outside with different insects calls to mind a dirty, yet fun childhood. Luckily for Ohio University Bug Club members, reliving these happy memories and putting childhood passions into practice is possible with several insects to discover in Athens.
During a typical Sunday meeting, the club can be found exploring insects native to Athens, with the goal to save and protect. Species may be researched, relocated and cared for, further educating members and benefiting the environment.
Athens is home to a plethora of species, including the Imperial Moth, Red-Spotted Admiral and Bold Jumping Spider. Each of these insects was last seen in September of 2024 by researchers from iNaturalist state.
Although some species may have daunting names, their characteristics and development can be intriguing, inspiring those interested to learn more. Katie Davis, a sophomore studying accounting and business analytics, is the club’s treasurer and said her fascination with bugs started in 2019.
“When I started my initial schooling in my previous institution in Texas, there were a lot of moths and stuff around the campus,” Davis said. “I got really into going around and looking for different moths and beetles and bugs.”
Davis said there are currently 20 members, and despite not having a designated meeting space, executive members encourage students to explore beyond a species’ surface level and uncover their intriguing personalities. Some of the topics covered include the Praying Mantis camouflage system and other insects’ tactics to stay alive in the wild.
“It is just overall a good place to meet other bug lovers because sometimes … you end up having a lot more in common with those people than you think,” Davis said.
Bug Club does not simply observe insects but also takes action in the Athens neighborhood. Through visits to Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills, Butterfly Ridge Conservation Center and collaborations with OU’s Wildlife Club, members strive to educate others and foster curiosity.
“It is a lot easier to learn about something when you are surrounded by people who share a passion and an interest, it is kind of contagious,” Kelly Johnson, an associate professor of biological sciences, said. “Being around people with a common interest can make someone feel more included.”
Citizen scientists, as defined by Discover Magazine, are the “members of the general public” involved in “scientific research” who are both “fun and productive.”
When analyzing the evolution of scientific technology and insect databases, Johnson said Bug Club members are Athens’ citizen scientists who try to cultivate a district where locals and other non-experts can understand the importance of native species.
“Insects are so crucial to food webs and our natural ecosystem,” Johnson said. “If they decline or disappear, we are going to see some pretty significant changes in the way our natural systems work.”
With spring underway, Bug Club plans to spread awareness about the vital role insects play in the environment and continue hosting thrilling meetings. Paige Brown, a sophomore studying biology, said the organization is bringing positive change to the Bobcat population.
“I hope (club members) learn what species are good and are harmless versus some that are not harmless and … will bite you or sting,” Brown said.
