Celebrating Nature Through Science and Story

Honorary Curator of Entomology Anthony Harris has dedicated decades to exploring, understanding, and sharing the wonders of the natural world. At Tūhura Otago Museum, he contributes to international scientific research, including co-authoring a major paper on the world's spider wasps (Pompilidae) with Professor Pitts and colleagues at Utah State University. He also lends his expertise to editing and reviewing scientific papers, particularly those focusing on parasitic wasps.

Beyond academia, Anthony is deeply committed to public engagement. For over 40 years, he has written the Nature File column in the Otago Daily Times, using accessible and thoughtful writing to highlight the beauty of insects, birds, forests, and New Zealand's unique wild places. His work encourages readers to find joy in nature and reflect on humanity's responsibility to protect it.

Anthony is often found helping identify curious finds brought in by the public and takes great satisfaction in making science approachable and meaningful to all. His message is simple yet powerful: evolution connects us to all life, and every species plays a role in the web of nature. He considers it a privilege to share this passion through his work at Tūhura Otago Museum, and to help others experience nature for its own sake.

You can read his formal research here: