INTRODUCTION

With rather simple equipment, the amateur as well as the trained entomologist can make a rewarding and valuable collection of insects. First-time collectors usually make a general collection that includes specimens taken from numerous habitats. This provides a good introduction to the diversity of insects. Later, the amateur or professional entomologist will frequently specialize in one or two groups of species. Butterflies and beetles are often chosen because they are large, showy, and easy to find.

Making an insect collection may have educational, recreational, and scientific value. Collecting insects is one of the best ways for individuals to learn about the diversity and abundance of insects. In addition, many people enjoy the collecting and derive satisfaction from later organizing and displaying the specimens, some of which may be quite striking. On a practical level, collections of beneficial insects and of household and garden pests can be used by farmers, homeowners, and pest control operators to help them recognize these insects. The scientific value of collecting insects is exemplified by the large research collections maintained by some museums, universities, and government organizations, such as the Illinois Natural History Survey. These collections, which may contain millions of specimens, are permanent records of the world's insects, the most abundant form of animal life on Earth.

This publication serves as a basic "how-to" guide for collecting and preserving insects and introduces the world of entomology, the scientific study of insects. In a broader sense, this publication may help students and others to learn to enjoy insects for their peculiarities, their similarities, and, most of all, for their amazing diversity.

PROTECT ENDANGERED SPECIES

Although the vast majority of insects encountered by collectors are very common, some species are threatened or endangered with extinction, often because destruction of their natural habitats. Collectors must act responsibly to avoid endangered species. For a list of endangered species in your area, contact the nearest office of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.