The collection currently is being completely reorganized and rehoused in new cabinets and drawers with support from a U.S. National Science Foundation grant. This will better protect the specimens from pests and other damage, so the collection will always be available for study. It also will make it much easier for staff and visiting scientists to use the collection.

Scientists David Pollock, Margaret Thayer, James Louderman (L-R) in butterfly collection

Margaret Thayer at work in the butterfly collection

Where do butterflies live? Visit our Butterfly Habitats page.

Want to learn more about butterflies? Click here for a list of Butterfly Resources.

Want to help out behind the scenes? The Field Museum’s butterfly and moth collection is one of many areas of the Museum that offers fascinating opportunities for Volunteers.