ACTON – Sometimes it’s important to take risks.

This is especially true for caterpillars, as they crawl to their favorite plants for dinner – often with intricate body movements and a legion of tiny feet.

To provide traction, some even use Velcro-like substances to maintain a good grip.

The thing is, being a caterpillar takes a lot of energy, even though time seems to be moving literally at a run.

Get a leg, or more

Humans can learn more about caterpillars as they prepare for their eventual adult life as graceful butterflies and moths at The Caterpillar Lab exhibit at the Discovery Museum.

The Caterpillar Lab by photographer and nature educator Sam Jaffe is based in New Hampshire and has featured at the museum several times as a regular favorite.

The Caterpillar Lab uses live caterpillars native to New England to educate the public about caterpillars, their behaviors, habitats, and the diversity of butterfly and moth species in the region.

‘Pretty cool’

Among the visitors on June 11 were Shan Li from Maynard and her son, Aiden, 3.

“I think it’s pretty cool and so cute,” Li said.

The exhibit is the perfect place to really see the caterpillars, up close and personal. Li said, “You never find a caterpillar outside. It’s so difficult.

If you are going to

The Caterpillar Lab exhibit is on view at the Discovery Museum, 177 Main St., Acton, through June 20.

Hours

Tuesday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed on Monday.

Tickets

$15.50 adults, $14.50 seniors 60 and over, $15.50 children. Free for children under 1, and for teachers. 25% discount for members.

COVID Rules

Advance tickets, masks and social distancing required. More details are available online.

More information

Call 978-264-4200 or visit discoverymuseum.org.

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