Introduction to Sunset Moth Preservation with Mickey Alice Kwapis

Learn how to spread and dry your own sunset moth specimen to keep. Using a rehydrated specimen ready to spread, each student will be guided through the process of flexing, posing, pinning, and drying their own moth specimen. This incredible insect, native to Madagascar, is a day-flying moth with structural colors that catch the light to appear as an iridescent rainbow. 

You will leave with your finished pinned specimen ready to dry at home, as well as a spreading board and tool set to keep for use with future projects. The week following the workshop, students will receive an email containing a digital guide to the entire spreading process, from a dried or freshly deceased specimen to completion. 

No experience necessary; ages 12 and younger must be accompanied by a calm adult who can assist where needed. Class registration fees include admission to the Whatcom Museum, one specimen and tool kit, and supplementary reading materials to learn how to repeat the process at home.