How To Use an Insect Guide

An insect guide is a perfect tool for trying to identify all the little critters you may run across. You may need to find out whether it is poisonous, why it's suddenly in your area, or you may just want to satisfy your curiosity. Guides with pictures are by far the best, because you can compare what you are actually seeing to what you are reading about. Insect guides are available for the younger crowd and will be sure to keep them entertained for a while.

If you find a bug that you want to try to identify, an online insect guide or a book is the perfect place to start. If it is possible, try to contain the insect in a glass jar or some type of see through container. You will need to be able to view all the angles of the insect.

• Insect guides will vary in how they are organized, but usually, the area you live in will be a good starting point. Some insects may only be able to live in specific environments. Where you found the insect is also important, was it in a tree, under a rock, or in the dirt? If the insect was found feeding on a certain plant, that is also very important information that will help identify the insect.
• Now you need to look at how many legs and antennae the insect may have. You will also need to look for wings. A magnifying glass may be necessary to see little legs.
• If possible, use a ruler to measure the size of the insect. You will probably need a ruler with millimeter markings.
• Look for any particular markings on the insect. You may need a magnifying glass to really see detailed markings. If possible, use tweezers or tongs to hold the bug steady, so you can get a good look.
• The color of the insect can also help narrow down the insect family. Use a stick or something to (very carefully!) poke the insect to determine whether the bug is hard or soft. Be gentle - you do not want to squish it before you have identified it.

Once you have all of your key information, you can use an insect guide to identify your find. Compare the specimen you have to pictures listed in the guide. There are so many insects that may resemble each other, or are from the same family, so every detail counts.