- Insectarium
Stéphane Le Tirant, Curator at the Montréal Insectarium, was awarded the prestigious Léon Provancher Award, in the “professional” category, from the Société d’entomologie du Québec in early November. The distinction is very well deserved, for this leading figure at the Insectarium has been involved in all its major projects, often as initiator or co-creator, since the institution first opened. His expertise in entomology as well as in conservation and in showcasing mounted and live collections has been invaluable and is widely recognized both in Quebec and farther afield. Indeed, Le Tirant’s input has frequently been sought to help with museums and exhibitions around the world. His vast international network of contacts has allowed the Insectarium to enrich its scientific collection, which today holds over 900 type specimens.
Le Tirant is a veritable walking encyclopedia who has written many scientific publications on entomological taxonomy and for lay audiences. His wide-ranging professional experiences, talent, rigorous approach and passion for entomology have unquestionably contributed to the success of the Montréal Insectarium.
The Léon Provancher Award was created in 1979 to honour the memory of the great Canadian naturalist who made an outstanding contribution to raising the profile of entomology.