'Ginormous animatronic bugs' coming to Winnipeg zoo to creep out and educate

The AssiniboinePark Zoo plansto bug its visitors this summer.

A limited-time exhibitcalledXtreme Bugswill feature animatronic bugs, including a six metreJapanese hornet and a four metrepraying mantis, in an up-close look at the physical characteristics of bugs and the science behind thebehaviours of typicallytiny creatures.

"Usually when people see bugs,they're looking down at them. In this exhibit, the bugs are going to be looking down at you," saidShane Pratt, animal care supervisor at the zoo.

"I know probably what some of you are thinking is 'That's disgusting' or 'Ew' or something of that sort.I think they're amazing creatures."

In all, there will be19 "ginormousanimatronicbugs"set up along a forested trail inside the zoo grounds this summer, saidGrantFurniss, senior director of animal care and conservation.

"This is going to be a very exciting, immersive attraction," he said.

The exhibit won't just be a fun experience but hopefully an educational one that provides "a story of just how important bugs are in our environment," Furniss said.

Interpretive components will help visitors understand the science behind insect appearance, behaviourand survival and the important role that bugs play in our everyday environment, a news release about the exhibit says.

Most people, particularly in the city, don't consider the benefits ofthese creepy crawliesthat help with decomposition, pollinate plants and fertilize the soil.

"We'd have severe food problems all over the world" without them,Pratt said.

"Ecosystems would collapse and the world would be a very inhospitable, different place."

The dates for the exhibit which is included with regular zooadmissionhaveyet to be finalized. Theywill be announced later this spring.

The zoo will offerbug-themed programs and workshops for preschool-aged children and school groups for an additional cost.