Specimens which the collector is unable to name may be sent to
specialists or entomological museums for identification. Names and
addresses of specialists can be furnished by agricultural agents,
teachers, or museum curators. The arrangements under which these
specialists will undertake the work vary, but experts often will study
well preserved and labeled collections in return for duplicate specimens
which they may keep. However, the identification of many insects is so
difficult and laborious that rapid service is not always to be expected
by collectors sending in material.
Specimens need special preparation and care to guard against breakage if
they are to be shipped to a specialist.
See that all pins used in mounting specimens are thrust securely into
the cork on the bottom of the box. Thrust extra pins of the same height
in each corner, and over the whole lay a piece of thin cardboard that
has been cut to fit the inside of the box snugly; then place over this a
layer of cotton wool or cellucotton thick enough to press firmly against
the cardboard when the top is closed. Wrap the box in paper and then
pack it in a larger box, protected on all sides by a layer of excelsior
or crumpled paper at least 2 inches thick.