Spencer

Dr. George J. Spencer was a professor in UBC's Zoology Department from 1924 to 1954. The founder of our collection, during his lifetime he contributed approximately 300,000 specimens to the museum; nearly half of our current entomological holdings. His speciality was insect parasites, primarily fleas, mammal lice, and bird lice. The Spencer Entomological Collection is now home to his private collection of over 8,000 microscope slides of these insect groups from around the world, dating back to the early 1900's. Included are many extremely valuable specimens, such as types for new species described by Spencer and parasites taken from host animals that are now extirpated from the province.

The digitization of this collection was generously supported by the Entomological Society of British Columbia,
allowing these priceless historical specimens to be available to everyone.
To learn more about the society visit the ESBC website.