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How to Build a Box for Viewing Insects

Insects can be safe and fun to capture and watch. Many insects have interesting habits and can be very educational to observe. The ideal container for observing bugs is one that has the correct habitat and can provide the bugs with air without letting them escape. Once insects are safely captured using nets, tweezers or other tools, they should be viewed for a day or so and then let free.

Things You'll Need

Shoe box with lid
Scissors
Clear plastic film (such as Saran Wrap)
Duct tape

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a large hole in the lid of the shoe box. The hole should be one inch to two inches from each side of the lid. Cut a hole in the long side of the shoe box that also is one inch to two inches from each side. Use the scissors for this step.
- 2
  Stretch the plastic film over each of the holes and tape each side down with duct tape. The film should be stretched tightly and there should be no gaps.
- 3
  Poke one hole in each short side of the shoe box. The hole should not be more than the size of a tooth pick and should be near the top of the box. This will provide air to the insects. Use the scissors for this step.
- 4
  Find several small pieces of plants, dirt and rocks and put them in the box. Capture the insects safely and add them into the box. Put the lid on the box and observe through the plastic windows.

Insects & Science