Fear to fascination.
We used to be afraid of bugs. But learning about the thing you’re afraid of changes fear to fascination. We are here to help you change your relationship with bugs.
Kindness and respect is important at home, in the classroom and the boardroom. Our workshops, trainings and curricula foster empathy for ourselves, others and the natural world using the world’s greatest teachers- BUGS!
Kristie Reddick
Kristie Reddick, M.S. is an entomologist, award-winning university lecturer and educational media specialist. Her research focuses on the biology, biodiversity, and distribution of solifuge arachnids in Kenya. She described the first male of the genus Tarabulida. After she received her Masters degree from Texas A&M University she lectured a course called Insects and Human Society, that explored how insects have shaped human history and culture. She wants to train teachers in refugee camps to use insects as educational resources.
Jessica Honaker
Jessica Honaker, M.S. is an entomologist and science illustrator whose research focuses on integrated pest management and the effect of honeydew production by blackmargined aphids in pecan agro-ecosystems. She received her Master’s degree from Texas A&M University and her research on pecan aphids is helping to establish new pest control parameters for farmers in eastern Texas. She plans to continue her work in an effort to reduce reliance on pesticides in developing countries.
Why “The Bug Chicks”?
We use “Bug” because that’s the word that most people use when they think about animals with exoskeletons and segmented legs. Most people don’t know the word ‘arthropod,’ so we use the word they use and then we teach them the right word.
Why “Chicks”? Some people hate this word and think it’s derogatory towards women (and it can be used that way), but we reclaimed it. To us, it’s a way to say that we are fun people who don’t take themselves too seriously (we have the credentials, no need to flex). So instead of “The Arthropod Ladies” or the “Animals-with-Exoskeletons Girls” we chose “The Bug Chicks.”
We were also in our 20s when we did it. As we get really old it’s gonna be awesome. Fine wine.