The public is invited to see caterpillars. Visitors of all ages are invited to explore the fascinating world of caterpillars up close on Sunday, August 23, at Tower Hill Botanic Garden. This is the third year that the Boylston nonprofit has hosted Sam Jaffe – a naturalist, biologist, photographer, and educator – to share his Live Caterpillar Show at Tower Hill. Jaffe and his team of experts will bring with them caterpillars ranging in size – some small enough to fit on a fingertip and others larger than an adult’s finger – and color, from muted to brilliant. The one-day show, open to the public from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., is free with admission and visitors will learn about these insects often seen in passing, but rarely appreciated. Jaffe, who operates the Caterpillar Lab in Keene, N.H., has an infectious enthusiasm for sharing his expertise and offers a rare chance to learn about the lives of these stunning creatures. Participants will learn more about New England’s plants and bugs, along with receiving a better understanding of the importance of biodiversity. But perhaps most important, is how much fun people of all generations can have together seeing these, sometimes bizarre, insects up close. In addition to the caterpillar show, visitors can explore Tower Hill’s formal gardens in peak summer bloom, take a short hike on the trails in the surrounding woodlands, stop by the café and gift shop, and more. For more information please call 508-869-6111, visit towerhillbg.org, or explore samueljaffe.com.
