As Valentine's Day revenge, Bronx zoo offers anyone to name a cockroach after their ex

Embracing an unconventional Valentine's Day tradition, the US Bronx Zoo provides an outlet for heartbroken individuals to express their feelings by naming a cockroach after their ex-partner for $15, NDTV reported.

The gift includes a vibrant certificate emailed to the recipient, officially announcing the naming of a Madagascar hissing cockroach in their honour.

For an extra $20, participants can also enjoy a virtual encounter with the roach and a surprise animal guest. Additionally, roach-themed socks and cuddly roach plushies are available for purchase.

Madagascar hissing cockroaches, known as the world's largest roach species, measuring nearly four inches long, take centre stage in this unique Valentine's offering.

The zoo announced the campaign on Twitter, stating: "Valentine's Day is creeping up once again.Only one gift has six legs and an irresistible aura of romance. That's right! Name a Bronx Zoo Madagascar hissing cockroach after your special someone and spell out your love for them in big, bold, big letters."

Orders for this distinctive Valentine's gift must be placed by February 8, 2024, to ensure delivery by Valentine's Day. The zoo's website humorously notes: "You don't always have the right words, but you can still give them goosebumps. Name a Roach for your Valentine because roaches are forever."

The Name-a-Roach initiative originated in 2011 at the Bronx Zoo, with participants playfully naming roaches after exes or even in-laws. Last year's program saw 3,246 people participating, contributing to the zoo's goal of supporting the Wildlife Conservation Society, dedicated to global biodiversity protection. Similarly, the Toronto Zoo Wildlife Conservancy launched a name-a-roach campaign last year.