Bug collecting can be a relaxing hobby as well as a hobby in which you learn much about nature and the natural cycle of life. There is no singe right way to do your bug collecting but, if you’re new to the adventure, there are some things that will help you get started.
#1. Have The Right Equipment For The Hobby. If you are serious about collecting bugs as a long-term hobby, you should invest in the right equipment. Every process of bug collection involves some kind of tool. Some of the tools that you will have to invest in include, an insect net, a killing jar, forceps, a relaxing jar, storage boxes, insect pins, labels, spreading board and pinning block.
#2. Learn The Process Involved In The Actual Collecting Of Bugs. After attaining all the necessary tools, it is important to learn about the processes involved in bug collection. Fortunately, the where and when are a non-issue as you can capture bugs almost anywhere and anytime during the year. However, you should learn how to actually capture the bugs, how to kill them, spreading them, and pinning them.
#3. Reference For The Identification Of Bugs. Finally, you need to find a good reference you can use to identify the bugs that capture so as to label your collection correctly. Correct labeling of bugs is critical to understanding the bugs you have in your collection. It also makes it easy to share your work with others.
Some good resources you may find helpful are as follows:
BugCollectors.com
BugGuide.net
If you want to learn about bugs native to Ohio you can check out:
Ohio State Creates Digital Archive For Massive Bug Collection
We hope you find lots of fun specimens for you new collection while you’re camping with us. Good luck with your new bug collecting hobby.