William F. Barr Entomological Museum

William F. Barr Entomological Museum

University of Idaho’s entomological collection was initiated in 1947 by Professor William F. Barr (1920-2011), a leading expert on Buprestidae and Cleridae.  A rich resource for researchers, students and enthusiasts alike — what began with just 10,000 specimens has expanded to over one million mounted insects.  

Groups best represented are Coleoptera (especially Cleridae, Buprestidae, Cerambycidae, Scarabaeidae, Scolytinae and Carabidae), Lepidoptera, rangeland grasshoppers and aquatic insects.  

School groups are regularly hosted for visits and special events, as part of the important Extension vocation of the museum.

Explore the museum

Learn more about the history of the museum, including interviews with students that contribute their work and research and colleagues that new William F. Barr: Learn more about the history.

Reports

• Hell's Canyon insect survey (pdf)
• Morphology of bark beetle (pdf)

Specimens of Idaho

Faculty and students have created a variety of posters showcasing different entomological species found in Idaho. Explore these unique specimens and learn about their role in Idaho’s ecosystems:

• Butterflies of Idaho poster (pdf)
• Jewel beetles of Idaho poster (pdf)
• Stink bugs of Idaho poster (pdf)
• Ladybird beetles of Idaho poster (pdf)