Brenna Shea bids farewell at final Bugs and Brews lecture in Missoula

The City of Missoula hosted its final Bugs & Brews lecture of the 2024-2025 series on June 9, 2025, featuring Bug Wrangler Brenna Shea. The event marked a bittersweet farewell for Shea, who has been a prominent figure at the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium for over six years.

Monica Rangel, co-founder of the Barclays House and Delta director, opened the evening by reflecting on the seasonal transition and the excitement surrounding the return of insects after winter. She expressed gratitude to the community for their participation in the lecture series, which began in September and has fostered a deeper understanding of entomology among attendees.

Rangel highlighted the partnership with DraftWorks Brewery, which has generously provided beverages for the series since 2015, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere of the events. She also acknowledged the contributions of staff, volunteers, and Missoula Community Access Television (MCAT) for their support in recording the lectures.

The evening included an announcement about an upcoming butterfly photography workshop on June 17, led by local photographer Kathy Eister. This event aims to engage the community in capturing the beauty of butterflies, with a focus on practical skills for all camera types.

As the highlight of the night, Brenna Shea took the stage to share her journey and insights gained during her tenure at the Butterfly House. Known for her engaging presentations, Shea reflected on her experiences and the unique world of insects, captivating the audience with her knowledge and passion.

The event concluded with a sense of community appreciation for Shea's contributions and a hopeful look towards the next lecture series, set to begin in late September.