Steve Collins, a Kenyan butterfly collector, has amassed a collection of over 4.2 million specimens over six decades, potentially the largest in Africa.
Now, facing age and limited resources, he seeks a suitable institution to preserve and utilize this invaluable scientific resource.
Collins’ passion for butterflies began in childhood, evolving into a lifelong pursuit.
He established the African Butterfly Research Institute in 1997, dedicating his time and resources to studying and collecting these delicate insects.
His collection, housed on his 1.5-acre property, includes 1.2 million butterflies meticulously pinned and stored in frames, alongside millions more preserved in envelopes.
Experts emphasize the scientific significance of Collins’ collection, highlighting its potential to provide crucial insights into environmental changes and biodiversity loss across Africa.
With climate change impacting habitats and biodiversity, these specimens offer a unique record of past and present butterfly populations.
However, maintaining the collection is a significant undertaking, requiring specialized storage, ongoing care, and substantial financial resources.
Collins is seeking a suitable institution, such as a museum or research center, to ensure the long-term preservation and accessibility of his collection for future generations of scientists.
This article highlights the importance of preserving natural history collections and the challenges faced by individuals dedicated to scientific research and conservation.