Did you know that leeches can feed as little as once a year?
This April, families can dive into the fascinating — and slightly creepy — world of nature’s most notorious feeders when Bloodsuckers: Nature’s Vampires opens at the Australian Museum just in time for the autumn school holidays.
Opening Thursday 2 April 2026, this globally acclaimed, award-winning exhibition goes far beyond scary myths and vampire legends. Instead, it reveals the surprising science behind mosquitoes, bats, birds, mites and other creatures that rely on blood to survive.
More Than Just Mosquitoes
From vampire bats and black flies to oxpeckers, mites, candiru catfish and medicinal leeches, the exhibition explores over 100 fascinating objects, specimens, large-scale models and interactive installations.
You’ll discover:
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Why blood is such a powerful food source
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How blood-feeding evolved over millions of years
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Which species bite humans — and how to avoid getting bitten
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The important role some bloodsuckers play in modern medicine
Yes, some of these creatures might make your skin crawl — but they are also extraordinary survivors that play critical roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
For the first time, the exhibition will also shine a spotlight on Australian blood-feeding insects found right here across the continent.
Immersive and Interactive for Kids
This is not your typical museum exhibition. Bloodsuckers: Nature’s Vampires is designed to be hands-on and immersive, making it ideal for curious kids and teens.
Expect:
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A mosquito swarm simulator
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Microscopes to examine specimens up close
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Touchable models
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Digital interactive displays
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Large-scale installations
It’s science meets pop culture, combining curiosity, biology and a touch of the macabre in a way that’s both educational and unforgettable.
A Globally Award-Winning Exhibition
Developed by the Royal Ontario Museum, Bloodsuckers has received major international recognition, including:
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Overall Winner at the 2019 American Alliance of Museums Excellence in Exhibition Awards
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Merit Award at the 2021 Society for Experiential Graphic Design Global Design Awards
Director and CEO of the Australian Museum, Kim McKay AO, says the exhibition invites visitors to look beyond misconceptions and gain a deeper understanding of biodiversity and evolution in action.
Plan Your Visit
Exhibition opens: 2 April 2026
Location: Australian Museum, Sydney
General public tickets on sale: 18 March 2026
Advance ticket prices:
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Adults from $28
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Children (4–15 years) from $15
Families are encouraged to join the waitlist to access priority booking, discounted tickets and exclusive updates:
australian.museum/exhibition/bloodsuckers/
Make It a Family Getaway
Hotel partner Pullman Sydney Hyde Park, located just a three-minute walk from the Australian Museum, is offering special family-of-four packages. These include exhibition tickets, overnight accommodation, buffet breakfast and an activity pack for children — perfect for a fun and educational city staycation.
If your kids are fascinated by creepy crawlies, wildlife or anything a little bit gross, this school holiday exhibition is sure to be a hit. Just be prepared — you may never look at a mosquito the same way again.
