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How to Study Bugs

Entomology, the study of insects, is a fascinating and educational hobby. Insects are small, six-legged invertebrate arthropods with six legs. Most have wings. The word "bug" is often used interchangeably with the word "insect." But to those who study insects, the words have specific meanings. "Bugs" are members of a specific order of insects that includes cicadas, aphids, stink bugs and more, so while all bugs are insects, not all insects are bugs. But for most of us, in most uses, the word "bug" applies to all insects. Those who want to learn more about these tiny creatures have many opportunities in everyday life to observe them in their natural surroundings.

Things You'll Need

Camera
Jars
Magnifying glass
Insect text book
Online sources for insect identification
Insect net
Gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Explore areas outdoors to find bugs to identify. Because insects are almost everywhere, you can begin your exploration in your own back yard. Parks, nature trails, fields and wooded areas are also good places to locate a wide range of insects. Other good areas for bug collecting include in and around trees; near ponds and lakes; under rocks; around flowers; and in tall grass. All these locations provide insects with places to hide and food to eat.
- 2
  
  Children enjoy learning about the various varieties of bugs.
  
  Make notes on the types of bugs you find in particular areas. For example, you may find that beetles are common in damp, shady areas, while bees are often seen near blooming plants. You will learn a lot about bugs as you begin to understand details of their environments.
- 3
  Take photographs of the insects you observe. By having photos to reference, you will have a source to study the colors, body parts and other characteristics of insects.
- 4
  Collect bug specimens in jars with lids. Use jars that are large enough to allow the insect to move around; baby jars and similar small jars don't offer enough room. Punch holes in the lids to allow air to get inside. Put some of the items from each bug's surroundings in the jar, such as leaves, sticks, grass and dirt. This will help you keep most specimens alive, but release them after you study them for no more than a day or two. Collecting insects will help you learn more about them you find as you observe them in the jars.
- 5
  
  You can see the details of bugs by using a magnifying glass.
  
  Use a magnifying glass to see each of your bug specimens close up. This will allow you to see tiny details such as legs, antennas and wings.
- 6
  Read insect reference books or online sites to help you identify the insects you observe. Many sources are available at libraries and on scientific websites to help you learn the details about the bugs you observe in the environments you explore.

Insects & Science