Dawson’s new beetle sanctuary housed in a terrarium on the 5^th floor near the main entrance at 3040 Sherbrooke Street W. serves as a vital initiative for breeding and conserving local beetle species, highlighting the critical role these often-overlooked insects play in ecosystems.

By providing a controlled environment that mimics their natural habitats, the project supports the study and preservation of native species, many of which are essential pollinators, decomposers, and indicators of environmental health.

This hands-on endeavor not only advances scientific research but also educates students and the community about biodiversity and the threats beetles face, such as habitat loss and climate change. Through careful breeding efforts, the sanctuary contributes to maintaining genetic diversity and potentially reintroducing populations into the wild, bolstering ecological resilience.

Beyond its practical outcomes, the project fosters a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of life, emphasizing that even the smallest creatures are indispensable to the balance of nature. This is a Living Campus project, reconnecting people, community and Nature.

-Submitted by Chris Adam

Over 2,000 people visited the first Canada Invertebrate Expo on Nov. 16 hosted by Dawson College. Organized by Dawson alumnus Daniel Zimmerman, who is owner of Live Beetles Canada, this Expo hosted over 30 booths with displays of insects, spiders, lizards, frogs, snakes, bonsai, carnivorous plants and more. Children and adults alike enjoyed a day of discovery and learning about the care of living things. Collectors were also here in abundance. It was organized as part of our 1,000 species accomplishment and part of the proceeeds went to the Living Campus Fund.

Daniel says “Dawson’s biodiversity efforts are amazing! Fragmentation of habitat in our urban environment is a problem and Dawson’s on-site micro-habitat development is inviting insects back to the urban landscape.”

He will be involved in creating a large indoor beetle breeding unit at the college with students and staff in the near future. He will also help further develop habitats that will attract native beetle and invertebrate species to the campus grounds.