Step Into the World of Pollinators at the Zoo
Powerful Pollinators Presented by Meijer Now Open
Rusty-patched Bubble Bee. Photo courtesy of the Milwaukee County Zoo.
MILWAUKEE, WI (May 28, 2026) – They’re tiny creatures that make a huge impact, and they’re leaving their mark as this year’s Milwaukee County Zoo Summer Exhibit. Powerful Pollinators presented by Meijer is now open through Oct. 4.
Bees, butterflies, beetles, and the rare Poweshiek Skipperling — nature’s building blocks — are on a mission to keep our ecosystems thriving. Explore larger-than-life animatronic pollinators and discover how the Zoo helps protect them through native gardens, honeybee hives, and conservation initiatives.
Be amazed by more than 20 robotic creatures with sound and movement, plus photo ops and interactive climbable structures. And, a limited number of rare pollinator trading card packs are available daily. Collect all the cards and unlock rewards with repeat visits throughout the summer!
Some of the featured pollinators include:
- Rusty-patched bumble bee: This is the only bee protected under the Federal Endangered Species Act, and they can sometimes be found here in southeastern Wisconsin.
- Goldenrod crab spider: This creature gets their name from their likeness to a crab and the ability to walk sideways.
- Red-banded leafhopper: Also known as the candy-striped leafhopper, they can jump 100 times their body length!
- Hummingbird clearwing moth: Unlike most moths, this species is active during the day, often hovering at flowers just like a hummingbird.
For further connection, plan to attend special Activity Series days — Wednesdays through Labor Day, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. — featuring expanded, hands-on content. The Activity Series is designed for all ages but ideal for ages 3 to 9 years old.
Powerful Pollinators is located outside, toward Wild Burger, and open daily during Zoo hours. Cost is $4 per person, after regular Zoo admission. Activity Series content is included with the $4 fee.
Exhibit provided by Dino Don, Inc.
See what all the buzz is about at the Zoo’s website, www.milwaukeezoo.org.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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