Extinct and Endangered: Insects in Peril
On view Aug. 9 to Nov. 2, 2025.
Buzzing into Fernbank this fall.
Extinct and Endangered: Insects in Peril is an evocative photography exhibit that brings attention to the urgent extinction crisis threatening insect populations while showcasing the beauty and significance of these often-overlooked animals. A story told through stunning large-format macrophotographs by Levon Biss, this exhibit highlights 19 endangered or extinct insect species. Biss’ breathtaking photographs, measuring 6 ft. wide by 4 ft. tall, reveal intricate, often unseen details of these fascinating creatures. Each photograph in Extinct and Endangered is created from up to 10,000 individual images using special lenses, capturing microscopic detail. Biss adapted traditional techniques to create a photographic process that reveals the minute details of insects in a resolution and scale never seen before. The collection offers a new perspective on their vital role in ecosystems and details the risks these insects face.
From bees to beetles, insects play a critical role in maintaining the health of ecosystems across the globe. Guests will encounter incredible photos of insects like the Blue Calamintha Bee, Elderberry Longhorn Beetle and Louisiana Eyed-Silkmoth, and be able to explore the profound impact insects have on our planet through pollination, decomposing waste and sustaining food webs. Extinct and Endangered: Insects in Peril will inspire visitors to recognize the crucial role of these remarkable creatures and develop a deeper appreciation for the insect world.
See this exhibit after-hours during select special events from Aug. 9 - Nov. 2, 2025.
Exhibit Highlights
- Large-scale macrophotographs detailing 19 endangered or extinct insect species
- Photos of rare specimens, including the rediscovered Lord Howe Island stick insect and the Katydid.
- Details about the essential roles insects play in ecosystems, from pollination to decomposition
- Details on the threats insects face, including habitat destruction, pesticide use and climate change
- Photographs revealing vibrant details of insects' color and complexity that can go unseen to the naked eye.
Extinct and Endangered: Insects in Peril is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (amnh.org). Photography by Levon Biss.
Fernbank is a nonprofit natural history museum, giant screen theater and old-growth forest, and is not affiliated with Fernbank Science Center, which operates as a division of DeKalb County Schools.
