Species: Acherontia lachesis
Location: San Francisco, 766 Valencia St.

About the Death’s Head Moth:

A creature steeped in mystery, folklore, and myth, the Death’s-head moth has long captured imaginations. In Europe, it was often called the “harbinger of death,” and seeing one was thought to be a sign of ill fortune. In Poland, it earned the nickname the “wandering bird of death,” with its squeak likened to the moaning of a grief-stricken child. Charming, right? In France, it was even believed that dust from the moth’s wings could cause blindness. Makes total sense to us. Overall, this moth has some truly heartwarming, “Chicken Soup for the Soul” style stories surrounding it.

In reality, the Death’s-head moth gets all this attention because of the distinct skull marking on its back. It was even featured in a film about a very hungry doctor because of its grim appearance. But is all the superstition warranted? You will have to attend the event to decide for yourself.

About the class:
In this hands-on, two-hour class, you will learn the full process of butterfly spreading, from hydration to pinning and preservation. Our expert instructor will guide you step by step, and you will use a Paxton Gate spreading kit to transform your moth into a preserved specimen you will get to take home and show off.

Inside each kit, you will receive:

• 1 Box of entomology pins
• 1 Anchor pin
• 4 Strips vellum paper
• Forceps
• Pinning board
  
• Instruction pamphlet

Important Details:

Classes will be held at 766 Valencia St., San Francisco.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours before the class to receive store credit, redeemable for merchandise or future classes.
Pre-registration is required, as materials must be prepared for each student and space is very limited. Please arrive promptly at the start time. Students are encouraged to bring lunch or snacks.