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PEFF: "The Extraordinary Caterpillar"

This hourlong documentary shines a spotlight on the critical—but often overlooked—role caterpillars play in biodiversity and follows the scientists and community activists working to aid them.

The film includes entomologist Doug Tallamy, co-founder of the Homegrown National Park movement which works to restore the ecosystems that provide habitats, clean air, and water. As Tallamy explains, caterpillars are essential to the food web: a single chickadee nest requires six to nine thousand caterpillars to survive their first two weeks of life. Even grizzly bears rely on caterpillars to fatten up for winter.

This special event of the Princeton Environmental Film Festival includes a caterpillar craft for all ages, perfect for children and families. A number of attendees will receive a copy of one of Doug Tallamy's books.

Be sure to visit our community partner tables throughout the event to learn more about local organizations working to protect and celebrate our natural and historic spaces. Participating organizations include D&R Greenway, Sustainable Princeton, Friends of Herrontown Woods, The Battlefield Society, and Friends of Princeton Open Space.

From the filmmakers:

Over 98% of the living world on Earth is smaller than a bee. Yet humans view the planet as a world centered around themselves. Landscapes are deconstructed to suit human needs, often with little regard for the natural systems that sustain the food web.

Presented in partnership with Sustainable Princeton.

Community Room Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Assistive listening system compatible with personal T-coil-enabled devices (compatible headphones also available for use during programs)
• English-language subtitles for films (when available)
• If there is an accommodation that you need or would like so that you can fully enjoy library programs, please visit our Accommodations Request Form.

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