OUr story

why doesn’t las vegas have a zoo?

Out of 50 large metropolitan cities of the nation, Las Vegas ranks at number 27. Out of those 50, there is only one that does not have a zoo. We believe Las Vegas deserves more than a zoo—it deserves a living sanctuary, a place where children can marvel, researchers can explore, and families can reconnect with the natural world. Our impact begins by asking the question—and answering it with action.

The Problem

Gap: The Las Vegas Valley currently lacks an accessible engaging educational facility focused on insects and their ecological importance. This leaves a gap in early science education and public awareness, especially in underserved communities.

Time Frame: This gap has persisted for years, with no significant initiatives addressing it. Without intervention, the opportunity to build foundational interest in biodiversity and conservation may continue to be missed for the next generation.

Trend: Urban areas across the U.S. are increasingly investing in micro-zoological exhibits and STEM-based learning centers. Las Vegas, despite its growth with major sports teams and tourism appeal, has not yet followed this trend in a meaningful way.

Impact: The absence of such a facility limits community engagement reduces opportunities for youth science education and weakens the foundation for future expansion into a full-scale zoo and Polar Pavilion. It also represents a missed chance to create a culturally enriching destination that aligns with the valley’s evolving identity.

Importance of Finding the Solution: Establishing an insect zoo now not only fills a critical educational and cultural gap but also lays the groundwork financially, logistically, and socially for a larger, phased zoological project. It’s a strategic first step for realizing a long-term vision that could redefine how Las Vegas connects with nature, learning, and the community.

Without the midge insect shown, the cocoa flowers also shown here would not be able to produce the delicious chocolate from – local chocolatiers.

A Sanctuary of Wonder

No chocolate. No honey. No apples. Without insects, the sweetness of life begins to fade. No Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory. No Winnie the Pooh eating his honey. No apple a day to keep the doctor away. Imagine a world without the golden hum of bees, the shimmer of butterfly wings, or the quiet work of beetles beneath the soil. “If insects were to disappear, the world would fall apart — there’s no two ways about it,” says entomologist Goggy Davidowitz (Kennell, 2015).

Insects are astonishing. They are the largest and most diverse group of animals on Earth—resilient survivors of mass extinctions, architects of ecosystems, and companions in childhood wonder. With over 900,000 known species, they comprise nearly 80% of the animal kingdom (Numbers of Insects, 2020). It’s no wonder children find them AWEsome. By supporting our mission, whether through donations or active participation, you are not only helping to preserve the incredible diversity of insects but also inspiring future generations to appreciate and protect these vital creatures.

We are committed to educating our zoo visitors, guests, and participates in our Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) programs about insects and their crucial roles. Additionally, we aim to collaborate with the Clark County School District (CCSD), private schools, and home-schooled children, to enhance their education. To honor these extraordinary creatures—and the ecological balance they sustain—we are launching a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization called, the Las Vegas Boutique Zoo (LVBZ): A living sanctuary featuring over 150 insect species across 5,400 sq. ft. of immersive exhibit space. Each room is a portal—an invitation to reconnect with wonder, reverence, and ecological truth.

• 75 species will be displayed as static specimens, honoring their form and function.
• 75 species will be alive in natural habitats, across three ceremonial exhibit rooms:
  • Nevada Native Insects (25 of 872 species)
  • USA Native Insects (25 of 91,000 species)
  • Year-Round Butterfly Walkthrough (25 of 17,500 species worldwide)