Sting Fling!

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An animatronic emperor scorpion swings its tail and snaps its pincers.
An animatronic ladybird beetle opens and closes its two sets of wings.
An animatronic Mexican redknee tarantula moves its furry front legs.
An animatronic orbweaver spider scuttles up and down its giant web.

It’s going to be a stunner of a spring at the Academy! Celebrate the opening of Venom: Fangs, Stingers, and Spines with an electrifying assortment of interactive, family-friendly programs, activities, and animal encounters—plus giant animatronic insects in the East Garden!

Sting Fling is March 27–May 25

Animatronic insects

Animatronic red-tailed bumblebee atop a giant model of a daisy blossom

Daily, March 27–May 25
East Garden

After encountering real, live venomous creatures in the aquarium, head outside to meet seven of their larger-than-life animatronic counterparts! Learn how these impressive insects and arachnids use venom and poison to hunt or defend themselves—and get some killer selfies atop a giant caterpillar while you’re at it.

Animal Demo

Most weekdays & Saturdays, 10:15 am
Main Floor

Meet one of the Academy’s amazing animal ambassadors. Will it crawl, slither, or walk on four feet? Join us during this fun program and see for yourself.

Children’s Puppet Theater: Arthropod Opera

Daily, 12:30 pm
East Garden

Join puppet performers for a little razzle-dazzle as they celebrate the amazing world of arthropods! This live, song-filled show shares how insects and arachnids use venom to survive and thrive.

Venom Crafts

March 27–April 12, 10 am–4 pm
May 23–25, 10 am–4 pm
East Garden

Celebrate Sting Fling by crafting your own take-home creations with local artist Danielle Zorn, including creepy-crawly arachnid headbands, hanging egg-yolk jellies, upcycled sea anemones, and more.

Animal Moves!

Weekdays, 10:15 am
Science Today Station

Boogie down and bust a move at this all-ages exploration of animal movement, from scaly critters to feathery flyers.

Venom NightLife (21+)

March 26, 6–10 pm
For adults 21+ with ID

Know the difference between poison and venom? You will by the end of the night, as Academy scientists show off some of the most toxic specimens from our scientific collections—including California reptiles and amphibians, venomous invertebrates, and toxic plants. Music by Starfari (DJ set).