Bug Bowl started as an extracurricular exercise for students, when Turpin held cockroach races for one of his classes. Other institutions such as the Smithsonian have started similar events. Other universities had entomology-related events before Bug Bowl, but have broadened their events since they learned how popular the Purdue event had become. Bug Bowl is part of Purdue's SpringFest, which includes the 86th annual Horticulture Show, the 36th annual Veterinary Medicine Open House, an Animal Sciences open house with a barnyard petting zoo where people can attempt cow milking, and dozens of other activities based on scientific disciplines and endeavors. SpringFest features departments from the schools of Agriculture, Consumer and Family Sciences, Science, and Veterinary Medicine.
All events are free.
Sarah Barry of Fishers, Ind., reacts to a New Guinea walking stick insect at Purdue's 1998 Bug Bowl. This year's Bug Bowl will include activities such as the petting zoo show here, cockroach racing, cricket spitting, and lots of insect snacks. Events take place in and around Entomology Hall. Color photo, electronic transmission, and Web and ftp download available.