With rather simple equipment, the amateur as well as the trained
entomologist can make a worthwhile collection of insects.
The making of such a collection may have educational and recreational as
well as scientific values. Developing this hobby is one of the finest
ways for students, especially those in agricultural districts, to become
acquainted with the large number of injurious and beneficial insects
that they encounter about the home and in the fields. High school
classes in biology find excellent laboratory material in the many
insects available for rearing and study. Both old and young collectors
find a great deal of pleasure in working with the showy and beautiful
insects, such as beetles, moths, and butterflies; the satisfaction
derived comes both from having relaxation from the day's work and from
making real contributions to scientific knowledge. Many entomological
museums welcome the opportunity to examine carefully prepared and
labeled collections. These collections supply distribution records for
insect species, in addition to other information of value to technical
entomologists. Also, the amateur collector profits from his contact with
specialists who can help him identify his specimens and advise him at
any stage of his work.
It is hoped that this circular will show how easy it is to make a start
in insect collecting and will give the student helpful ideas on how and
where to begin.