Take part in Aberdeen Insect Week 2026

Aberdeen Insect Week is jam-packed full of fun!

We are excited to announce Aberdeen Insect Week 2026, taking place from 22–28 July 2026. This programme of events is organised by SRUC PhD candidate Charlotte Wood, with support from NESBiP.

This local celebration forms part of Insect Week, a nationwide initiative led by the Royal Entomological Society. This aims to raise awareness of the importance of insects and inspire people to learn more about the small but vital creatures that support our ecosystems.

👉 Find out more about Insect Week

👉 Follow Aberdeen Insect Week on Facebook for updates, event announcements and booking information

Charlotte Wood Sweep netting for insects

Hoverfllies are one of many insect we will celebrate this week – Abbie Ferrar

Event Programme

A full week of activities has been planned across Aberdeen, offering opportunities to learn new skills, explore local habitats, and celebrate insects in a variety of ways.

Monday 22 July

Introduction to Beetle Identification with Aberdeen Ranger Service
📍 Venue TBC
Learn the basics of identifying beetles and discover the diversity of these fascinating insects with guidance from the Aberdeen Ranger Service.

👉 More information coming soon

Tuesday 23 July

10:00 – 12:00

Greyhope Morning: Master the Art of Insect Surveying
📍 Greyhope Bay Centre
Take part in a hands-on session to build your insect surveying skills in a stunning coastal location.

👉 Find out more and book your place 

14:00 – 16:00

Bordered Brown Lacewing ID and Survey Taster Session with Buglife
📍 Cove Bay
Join Buglife to learn about the rare bordered brown lacewing and try out survey techniques.

👉 More information coming soon

Wednesday 24 July

14:00 – 16:00

Wildflowers for Pollinators with NESBiP and Curam Fyvie
📍 Duthie Park
Explore how wildflowers support pollinators and learn practical ways to create insect-friendly habitats.

👉 Find out more and book your place

Friday 26 July

Stand Tall for the Small – Entomology Talks
📍 James Hutton Institute (JHI)
A series of engaging talks celebrating insects and the people working to understand and protect them.

👉 More information coming soon

Saturday 27 July

The Big Bug Bash: Family Fun Day with SRUC and Friends of St Fittick’s Park
📍 St Fittick’s Park
A fun-filled family day with activities, learning opportunities and insect-themed exploration suitable for all ages.

👉 More information coming soon

Sunday 28 July

Dipping into Discovery: All Ages Pond Dipping with SRUC
📍 Den of Maidencraig Nature Reserve
Discover the hidden world of aquatic insects with this hands-on pond dipping session.

👉 More information coming soon

Why Celebrate Insects?

Insects are essential to the health of our environment and our everyday lives. They:

• Pollinate crops and wild plants
• Help recycle nutrients by breaking down organic matter
• Provide food for birds, mammals, and other wildlife
• Act as indicators of environmental change

Despite their importance, many insect populations are declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and other pressures. Events like Aberdeen Insect Week are a chance to connect with nature, learn new skills, and find out how we can all help protect insect life.

 Get Involved

Whether you are a beginner, a wildlife enthusiast, or looking for family-friendly activities, Aberdeen Insect Week offers something for everyone. From identification sessions to hands-on surveys and fun events, this is a great opportunity to explore the natural world around you.

Save the dates – more information, including booking details, will be available soon. Follow the Facebook page to stay up to date.

Partners

Aberdeen Insect Week is made possible through collaboration between a range of organisations, led by SRUC and supported by NESBiP, alongside partners including Aberdeen City Council Countryside Ranger Service, Buglife, Greyhope Bay Centre, Curam Fyvie, The James Hutton Institute and Friends of St Fittick’s Park.