Colin Butler (entomologist) facts for kids

Colin Gasking Butler was a British scientist who studied insects, also known as an entomologist. He made a very important discovery about bees. He was the first person to find a special chemical signal called a pheromone. This specific pheromone, known as "queen substance," helps queen bees attract male bees, called drones.

Early Life and Education

Colin Butler was born in Horsham, England, on October 26, 1913. His father was a school teacher. Colin went to Monkton Combe School in Bath. After that, he studied at Queens' College, Cambridge University.

A Career in Science

After finishing his studies, Colin won a special scholarship. This allowed him to do research at a government department called the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. Later, he was put in charge of a special insect research center at Cambridge University.

Colin then moved to a famous research center called the Rothamsted Experimental Station in Harpenden. This is where he did his most famous work. His research helped him discover the "queen substance" pheromone. He worked at Rothamsted until he retired in 1976. By then, he was the head of the insect study department. He also wrote several books about his work.

Other Contributions

Colin Butler also helped lead other groups. He was the president of the Cornwall Naturalists Trust. He also served on a committee for the National Trust, helping to protect natural and historical places in Devon and Cornwall.

Later Life

Colin Butler lived a long life. He passed away on January 4, 2016, at the age of 102, after a short illness.