A Unique Valentine’s Gift: Name a Cockroach
It’s that time of year again! And this year, zoos all around the U.S. are offering a quirky solution for those with a broken heart. By naming a cockroach after an ex, you can turn your past love into a humorous memory.
On this Valentine’s Day, a number of zoos are promoting this unusual fundraiser, aimed at supporting animal care. But, the fun doesn’t stop with the heartbroken. Couples—married or single—are invited to join in on the laughter.
The Bronx Zoo initiated its “Name a Cockroach” campaign way back in 2011. Since then, it’s become a trend, with places like the San Antonio Zoo, Birmingham Zoo in Alabama, and Brookfield Zoo in Chicago following suit. In fact, numerous zoos have adopted similar campaigns over the years.
For donations ranging between $5 and $70, participants receive a digital certificate, which can either be gifted or cherished by the giver. There are also options for fun upgrades, like plush toys or virtual experiences with these unique insects.
According to estimates from the Wildlife Conservation Society, around 60,000 cockroaches have been named in honor of former partners—some quite creatively even named after celebrities! The initiative has reportedly collected nearly $1 million in donations over its 15-year run.
On February 14th, a special board will be unveiled, showcasing the names of these new honorary cockroaches.
And these aren’t just any cockroaches—they’re Madagascar hissing cockroaches. Oval-shaped and capable of living on minimal resources, they can grow up to four inches long, with some males sporting impressive horns.
That distinctive hissing sound? It’s not just for show. It comes from air being pushed through their specialized breathing openings. In essence, it’s a natural way for them to communicate, showing everything from displeasure to dominance.
These cockroaches are indigenous to Madagascar, found in decaying logs, garbage, and compost. Remarkably, they’re agile climbers, even scaling smooth surfaces like glass.
While the naming program has a whimsical flair, all funds raised go toward serious conservation efforts, including animal welfare, species protection, and educational initiatives.
