Insect Hour: Insect collections – Life after death
9 December @ 13:00 – 14:00
Insect Hour: Insect collections – Life after death
Insect Hour will be held every second Wednesday of the month* from 1pm-2pm (UK time). All are welcome – talks are free to attend and open to both RES members and non-members.
Register to attend below, grab a cuppa or sandwich and join us on Zoom! There will be time for questions and discussion towards the end of the session.
* Excluding August, September, and January
Talk summary
Insect collections are sometimes perceived as a thing of the past but the truth is, they’ve never been more relevant. Preserved specimens held in museums are a vital resource for understanding how insects species are related to one another and how their populations are changing over time.
Ashleigh will showcase how the insect collections at National Museums Scotland are used in scientific research, and are and important tool for education and outreach
Speaker
Ashleigh Whiffin, Curator of Entomology at National Museums Scotland.
Ashleigh is responsible for the care, curation and development of the insect collection at National Museums Scotland, containing approximately 2.5 million specimens. This active collection is used for vital biodiversity research and education. She also works with the Biological Records Centre to co-organise a National Recording Scheme for Carrion Beetles; and internationally, she is a communications officer for the Entomological Collections Network.
Ashleigh is a keen science communicator and is passionate about disseminating entomology and the value of collections, to the wider public. She primarily shares her love for insects through public talks and social media, but has also featured on BBC Winterwatch, Gardeners World and the One Show.
Does our work resonate with you? Consider supporting the Society with a donation
Insect Hour is a free online talk series, bringing expert speakers from around the world directly to your screen. We’re proud to make these fascinating talks accessible to everyone, but if you’ve enjoyed an Insect Hour event, please consider making a donation to support our work.
Every contribution helps us continue championing insect science, education, outreach and conservation. Like insects themselves, even the smallest actions can have a big impact – so whatever you’re able to give, thank you for helping us inspire curiosity, share knowledge and support a greater understanding of the insects that sustain our world.
Register below by 12:30 (GMT), 9 December 2026
