For just $15, individuals can now express their affection or disdain this Valentine’s Day by naming a Madagascar hissing cockroach at the Bronx Zoo, according to Debbie Schneiderman, Executive Director of Membership & Digital at the Wildlife Conservation Society.
Schneiderman explains that while some may opt to name the roach after an ex-lover, the majority do so as a gesture of love or friendship. Parents, for instance, often name the bugs after their children, who have a fondness for the creatures.
The initiative, which began in 2011, has proven popular despite initial hesitation. Over the years, more than 54,000 roaches have been named, raising $1.1 million for wildlife conservation.
Madagascar hissing cockroaches, native to the island off the coast of Africa, are not pests and are known for their social behavior. They emit a distinctive hissing sound as a defense mechanism, which is attributed to various behaviors including mating, combat, and alarm.
The initiative has garnered mixed reactions, with some expressing horror and others delight. Nonetheless, it has become a staple Valentine’s tradition for many New Yorkers, with Schneiderman emphasizing its iconic status within the city.
In addition to receiving a digital certificate, donors can also enjoy a virtual meet-up with their named roach and receive roach-themed merchandise.