Introduction to Field Entomology

Start Studying Insects Properly

Discover the fascinating world of insects with this practical, beginner-friendly 1-day Introduction to Field Entomology course from NOMAD Outdoor Learning.

This course is designed for gardeners, photographers, naturalists, wildlife enthusiasts, outdoor educators and complete beginners who want to move beyond casual interest and start learning insects properly.

You do not need prior experience. You do not need specialist knowledge. You just need curiosity, patience and an interest in the natural world.

In one structured day, you will learn how field naturalists begin observing, finding, handling and identifying insects with care, accuracy and respect.

Why Take This Course?

Most people are interested in insects but do not know where to begin.

They take photographs, search online, compare images, guess a name and move on. That is fine for casual interest, but it is not real field entomology. This course gives you a better starting point.

You will learn how to observe insects properly, understand basic insect structure, recognise the main insect groups, use simple field equipment, and begin recording what you find in a more useful and organised way. The aim is not to overwhelm you.

The aim is to give you a clear, confident first step into practical entomology.

What You Will Learn

During this 1-day course, you will be introduced to the essential foundations of field entomology, including:

• What entomology is and why insects matter
• What defines an insect
• Basic insect anatomy and body structure
• How to recognise the major insect Orders
• How to use a hand lens effectively
• Simple field observation methods
• Quiet observation and watching behaviour
• Sweep netting, beating tray use and habitat searching
• Safe handling of live specimens
• Ethical collecting principles
• When to observe, when to release, and when collection may be appropriate
• Basic field notes and recording habits
• An introduction to stereo microscope examination
• How microscopes reveal features you cannot see by eye
• The first steps in insect identification

You will also see how equipment such as sweep nets, beating trays, pooters, hand lenses, collecting tubes and stereo microscopes are used in practical insect study.

A Practical Course, Not a Lecture Day

This is not a dry classroom talk. You will be working in a small group with practical demonstrations, guided observation, real specimens and specialist equipment.

You will learn by seeing, handling, asking questions and practising basic field skills.

The course is deliberately introductory. It does not try to turn you into an expert in one day. Instead, it gives you the right foundation so you can continue learning with confidence and avoid bad habits from the start.

Who This Course Is For

This course is ideal for:

• Complete beginners
• Gardeners wanting to understand insects in their garden
• Wildlife photographers wanting better subject knowledge
• Amateur naturalists wanting structure
• Conservation volunteers
• Outdoor educators and activity leaders
• Sea kayakers interested in coastal biodiversity
• Biological recording beginners
• Anyone curious about insects but unsure where to start

No previous entomology experience is required.

What Makes This Course Different?

You will not be left guessing from internet images. You will be introduced to proper field habits, basic identification thinking and ethical natural history practice from the beginning.

You will also gain access to specialist equipment and practical teaching that many beginners rarely experience unless they are connected to a university, museum or established natural history group.

This is the gateway into the wider NOMAD Outdoor Learning entomology pathway.

Start here, build confidence, then progress into deeper field skills, microscope work, specimen preparation and the NOMAD Entomology Club.

By the End of the Day, You Will Be Able To:

• Explain what makes an insect an insect
• Recognise several major insect groups
• Use a hand lens more effectively
• Understand basic field collecting equipment
• Observe insects with more patience and purpose
• Record simple field information
• Understand the importance of ethical collecting
• Appreciate how microscopes are used in insect identification
• Know what your next step should be in field entomology

You will leave with a clearer eye, better field habits and a proper starting point for studying insects.

Your Next Step

If you have ever turned over a stone, watched an insect on a flower, photographed a beetle, found a strange larva, or wondered what lives in the grass beneath your feet, this course is for you.

The natural world is full of detail most people walk past. This course helps you start seeing it properly.

Book your place on Introduction to Field Entomology and take your first practical step into insect study.

Course Details

Course: Introduction to Field Entomology
Level: Beginner
Duration: 1 day
Experience required: None
Group size: Small group teaching
Suitable for: Adults and interested beginners
Location: Suffolk / NOMAD Outdoor Learning field sites
Next step: Practical Field Entomology and the NOMAD Entomology Club

Book online or register your interest for upcoming dates.