ST. LOUIS ZOO ANNOUNCES ADMISSION FEE REDUCTION
AT MONSANTO INSECTARIUM

The St. Louis Zoo will reduce the admission fee to Monsanto Insectarium, it was announced this week.  As of March 14, 2002, admission to the Insectarium will be $2.00 per person and free to anyone under the age of two.  The Insectarium will remain free from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. each day.

"The Insectarium has such an important message, and we want to reach as many visitors as possible," says Dr. William J. Boever, assistant director of the Zoo.  "Invertebrates are definitely unappreciated.  They work hard to recycle waste, pollinate our crops, and support the entire cycle of life," he adds.  "Without them, humans could not exist on Earth."

Monsanto Insectarium opened to the public in May, 2000, with 20 major exhibit areas and 100 different insect species.  There are a variety of hands-on exhibits, including invertebrates' architecture, communication and value in the earth's food chain.  A geodesic flight dome, the Mary Ann Lee Butterfly Wing, has an array of beautiful flying insects, such as butterflies, damselflies and katydids, in a tropical setting.  

An All Day Pass is available at the Zoo's Guest Services desk for $10.00 per person, with a value of $16.50.  This provides unlimited use of the Insectarium, Emerson Children's Zoo and Zooline Railroad and other Zoo extras.  During the summer season, it also includes the Sea Lion Show.

Admission to the St. Louis Zoo is free. Zoo Friends receive free Insectarium admission with membership.  Call 781-0900, ext. 345 for group rate information.