Bedford Field Notes: Bugs

Hear from Dr. Jessica Ware, noted entomologist and curator at the American Museum of Natural History, about all things bugs!

Join us for a lively discussion about Bugs—the smallest, and possibly most critical, creatures in Bedford's ecosystem.

The evening will feature Dr. Jessica Ware, award-winning curator at the American Museum of Natural History where she serves as Chair of the Division of Invertebrate Zoology. The world of insects is far more fascinating—and far more important—than most of us realize. Dr. Ware will introduce us to the astonishing diversity of insects that share our landscapes, from bees and butterflies to dragonflies, beetles, and ants. She and Mianus River Gorge’s Dr. Chris Nagy will explain why these tiny creatures play an outsized role in healthy ecosystems—pollinating plants, recycling nutrients, and supporting the food web. Bedford residents will leave with a new sense of curiosity about the insects they encounter every day, and a clearer understanding of how our choices—from gardening to land stewardship—affect the smallest members of our local ecosystem. The event will close with audience Q&A.

Dr. Ware is the author of "Bugs (A Day in the Life): What Do Bees, Ants, and Dragonflies Get up to All Day?", a children's book about bugs. Books will be available for sale and signing.

The evening will be moderated by David Pogue, the Emmy Award–winning journalist, author, and television host best known for his work with CBS Sunday Morning, The New York Times, and NOVA. A Bedford resident, Pogue brings curiosity, clarity, and wit to conversations that bridge science, culture, and everyday life.

Bedford Field Notes is presented by the Mianus River Gorge, in partnership with the Bedford Historical Society, the Bedford Garden Club, and the Rusticus Garden Club.