Carri-on communicating: Creating portable insect displays for entomological outreach

At National Museums Scotland, there were virtually no portable insect displays for outreach until 2016. Since this turning point, there has been greater interest in promoting the collection via participation in outreach events. This increased interest has necessitated creative solutions for delivering museum specimens and expertise beyond the walls of the collection centre. Several small displays have been created at almost no additional cost by repurposing drawers or existing boxes and using specimens previously destined for disposal. Unit trays are often used to sub-divide the drawers, with header labels providing information. These drawers and boxes cover various themes, from aquatic insects to bee diversity. Some of the most well-used are themed around Carrion insects. A hit with all audiences, from school groups to families, they have been used at science festivals, careers events, Insect Week celebrations, and external outreach collaborations. Some boxes are dual purpose, being used for outreach and training workshops, and can be paired with interactive demonstrations. An overview of these portable displays is provided, along with lessons learned and recommendations for creating similar outreach drawers.