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This course bridges the gap between caterpillar ecology and backyard conservation. Dr. Ellen Lake will guide you through fascinating aspects of caterpillar biology and discuss the critical ecosystem services caterpillars provide. You will learn about keystone host plants and best practices for managing a “moth-friendly” landscape. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned naturalist, you’ll learn how to search for caterpillars, the tools to identify them, and the knowledge to protect and promote them through every stage of their life cycle.
Virtual class ends at 10:30, as the instructor takes the in-person students for a tour of the gardens. All virtual registrants will receive a recording of the class with access to view the class for 30 days after the live session.
This program takes place online Friday, August 7, 2026.
🥬 Certificate of Attendance for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) available
🥬 New class
🥬 Online
About the Instructor:
Ellen Lake, PhD, is the Director of Conservation and Research at Mt. Cuba Center. She taught environmental education and was the Education Director at the Brandywine and Red Clay Valley Associations. Ellen has a master’s degree in Entomology and Ph.D. in Entomology and Wildlife Ecology from the University of Delaware, where she researched biological control of mile-a-minute weed and how to integrate weed management techniques to restore plant communities. Ellen has extensive experience researching insect-plant interactions, including work for the USDA in the Greater Everglades ecosystem.
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