El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens’ wildly popular Valentine’s Day event, “Quit Bugging Me,” is officially back, the City of El Paso announced in a press release on Wednesday, February 5.

From now until Valentine’s Day, Friday, February 14, participants can name a cockroach, slug, bug, or cricket after someone who has been “bugging” them. These tiny critters will then become a snack for the zoo’s animals.

The live feeding of Madagascar hissing cockroaches is scheduled for 2:15 p.m. on Valentine’s Day at the meerkat exhibit. The event will be streamed live on El Paso Zoo’s Facebook and Instagram pages for those who can’t attend in person.

Want to get in on the fun? Submit the name of an ex, a boss, an in-law, or anyone else through the El Paso Zoo’s official website at https://www.elpasozoo.org/. All names will remain anonymous, with only first names displayed.

“Quit Bugging Me”: A Fun Tradition with a Purpose

The ‘Quit Bugging Me’ event isn’t just about fun—it also benefits the animals. The zoo regularly provides enrichment activities to keep its residents mentally and physically engaged. Madagascar hissing cockroaches are ethically frozen and offered to insectivores under the supervision of the zoo’s veterinary team. Insects like these are a natural part of their diet, both in captivity and in the wild,” the city stated.

While donations are encouraged, they are not required to participate. All contributions will be managed by the Paso del Norte Community Foundation, supporting wildlife conservation efforts, animal enrichment programs, and professional development for zoo staff.

The El Paso Zoo and Botanical Gardens is again ready to take names—literally! Their annual “Quit Bugging Me” campaign lets you name a critter after someone who’s been bothering you.

This year, the zoo encourages participants to make donations through the Paso del Norte Community Foundation. Although a donation isn’t required to submit a name, it’s highly encouraged! Funds raised through this event will help support the zoo’s mission of aiding wildlife organizations, acquiring enrichment for its animals, and providing professional development opportunities for zoo staff.

Zoo animals regularly receive enrichment activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. The Madagascar hissing cockroaches are ethically frozen and fed to insectivores as determined by the zoo’s veterinary team. These insects are a natural part of their diet, whether in the wild or in captivity. The zoo strives to replicate this diet as closely as possible while under their care.

How to Submit a Name

Only names submitted through the online form will be used for this event. All names will be displayed anonymously, with only first names shown. Submissions will be accepted until midnight on February 13 (MST).