The Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium thrives thanks to our amazing volunteers. Volunteers come from all walks of life and with a range of experiences. From UM students, to retirees, to working parents; with a background in wildlife biology or a great curiosity and desire to learn about insects and their relatives. Volunteers help with a variety of activities. Whether you’re interested in engaging with visitors on our museum floor, assisting with educational programs such as field trips and camps, or taking care of our wonderful animal ambassadors, there is a role for you!

Types of Volunteer Opportunities

Training

There is no need to have your PhD in entomology or education to volunteer, just a passion for what we do and a willingness to learn. Our wonderful staff will help to train you on the different tasks, and we also offer a monthly training on fun content to keep you learning.

Signing Up

If any of these opportunities pique your interest, please take a moment to fill out our Volunteer Application below. This will help us better understand how you would like to volunteer your time and how we can effectively utilize your skills and interests.

Volunteer Application

  • Please tell us if this is your cell, home, or work phone.
  • For example, "I work 9-5, but am available evenings and weekends." or "I work mornings but am available all afternoons except Fridays."
  • Please list any experience or expertise (e.g., education, work, or volunteer history) that you would like to share with us.

Volunteer Spotlight

Jenny Taber

Retired Oncology Nurse

Jenny, a New Zealand native, is a retired nurse who moved to Missoula in 1978. After retiring from a 50 year nursing career Jenny now enjoys adventuring with her girlfriends, skiing and biking, playing with her two young grandkids and volunteering with us!

Favorite Bug Ambassador: Blue Beetles

Favorite Moment: After going to Chief Charlo’s Science Night last week, Jenny returned and excitedly told us about a little girl who was so nervous to hold our Blue Beetles. She gradually worked her way up from touching its back to holding the beetle. Jenny said that the look of pride on her face was just priceless!