I’ve always had an innate sense of curiosity deep within my heart. From the get-go, animals have captivated me - particularly the weird ones. However, as a young boy, I lacked the confidence to explore the world as I wished. For the longest time, my fascination with creatures was quelled by Pokémon. While I adored these adorable virtual creatures, it wasn’t enough. I couldn’t interact with them and I couldn’t study them, because of course, they aren’t real.
Torin O’Connell
Bugs Ed presenter and Creepy Crawly Connoisseur
One day, I mustered up the confidence within myself to explore this world. And it was beautiful. While Earth’s creatures cannot breathe fire or use psychic power, their diversity and adaptations are innumerable, and we’ve only scratched the surface.
Insects are the best example of this. Their adaptations set the precedent for Earth’s evolution, and their diversity is unmatched. And beyond this - insects are weird. Of course I love them!
To indulge my own curiosity, I’m currently undertaking an Honours research project at The University of Queensland. My research is focused on the brooding behaviour of the Southern Blue-Lined Octopus (our local “blue-ringed octopus”), as we believe they may be some of the best mothers in the world. I’ve also discovered an insect species, a scale insect I’ve named Apiomorpha spinadentes, which is yet to be published. .
My goal while working with Bugs Ed is to nurture the innate curiosity in children, the same curiosity that inspired me to fall in love with this world. And of course, bugs will be my muse.
