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Our History
Founded by husband and wife team Jace & Cara Porter, The Insect Discovery Center began as a traveling exhibit known as the New England Mobile Insectarium, bringing the extraordinary world of insects to communities across the northeast. What started as a passion for making entomology accessible grew into a broader mission: to change public perceptions of insects, inspire scientific curiosity, and advance research and conservation around the world. That mission led to the establishment of the Global Entomology Coalition, an international nonprofit dedicated to advancing insect discovery, education, and conservation.
Now, we're bringing that vision home to New Hampshire, our founder's home state, with plans to establish a permanent destination where people can encounter live insects, explore remarkable scientific discoveries, participate in hands-on programs, and become part of a growing community dedicated to understanding and protecting the natural world.
The Insect Discovery Center represents the next chapter in that journey: putting down roots, building lasting community connections, and creating a place where families can experience something unique and the discoveries never end.
Meet Our Founders
Jace Porter
Jace is an entomology educator, conservationist, and explorer dedicated to changing the way people see insects and their role in the natural world. His work in insect education, research, and conservation spans five continents, connecting communities with the remarkable diversity and ecological importance of insects through public programming, field research, and hands-on learning experiences. A former entomology technician at the University of New Hampshire, Jace combines scientific experience with a passion for making discovery accessible to everyone. He is the founder of the Global Entomology Coalition and Expedition Entomology, which brings people into the field to explore insect diversity while supporting research and conservation. Jace is also a member of The Explorers Club, the prestigious international organization dedicated to scientific exploration, and serves as Programming Chair for its New England Chapter. Through the Insect Discovery Center, he is bringing years of work in entomology and public engagement back to his home state, with a vision of building a space where curiosity is encouraged, misconceptions are challenged, and a greater appreciation for insects inspires meaningful scientific discovery and conservation action.
Cara Porter
Cara is an animal lover who, when not helping to care for our insects, works as a professional dog groomer in Rochester, New Hampshire. She's an outdoorswoman, conservationist, and advocate for social equity who believes every living creature deserves compassion, especially the ones the world tends to overlook. Cara has a special soft spot for the “ugly” animals, finding beauty and value in nature that others might dismiss. Her love of the natural world extends far beyond the grooming salon. An avid hiker, completing the NH48 and many more, she spends much of her time exploring the outdoors and embracing the challenges of adventure. She plays a vital role in research expeditions, overseeing safety and logistics to help ensure that field teams can focus on discovery while navigating the challenges of working in remote environments. Whether she's caring for animals, exploring mountain trails, supporting scientific research, or advocating for a more equitable world, Cara brings compassion, resourcefulness, and a deep respect for life to everything she does.
Feta Cheese
Winner of the 2024 Rochester Pride talent show, this beauty queen can sometimes be found at the Center, because every great museum needs a dedicated security team.
Meet Feta, a Chinese Crested mix and official Insect Discovery Center guard dog with a very negotiable sense of professionalism! Feta takes her duties seriously... or at least she would if they involved an unlimited supply of snacks and belly rubs. Highly motivated by food, fueled by hugs, and always on the lookout for her next treat, she is prepared to do just about anything for the right reward.
Her loyalty is easily bribed, but at least she has a big heart. Just don't leave your lunch unattended.
