This is the question I hear most, so let’s start here.
Most school assignments ask for a set number of insects (often 20 to 30), each identified at least to order, and each with a proper label. Here’s how I’d tackle it:
- Read the assignment closely. Check how many specimens, which orders are required, whether they must be from your state, and whether they need to be pinned or just mounted.
- Collect what you can yourself. Porch lights at night, flowers in the afternoon, and under logs are all great spots.
- Fill in the gaps. Some orders are hard to find, especially late in the season. That’s where specimens from your state or a neighboring state can help.
- Label everything as you go. Write down where, when, and who collected each insect. You can’t add that information later from memory.
- Give yourself time. Dried specimens need to be relaxed before pinning, which takes a day or two.
Post your assignment details below and we’ll help you plan it out.
