Foundations of Field Entomology

This immersive two-day course introduces the full range of ethical field collection techniques for terrestrial and freshwater invertebrates. Students will leave with the confidence to work independently and safely in varied habitats.

Skills Covered

Field Equipment Essentials

• 10x–20x hand lens
• Sweep net (standard and heavy-duty options)
• Beating tray and stick
• Pooter (aspirator)
• Soft forceps and fine brush
• Collection tubes (dry and ethanol)
• Ethanol (70–95%) overview
• White sorting trays
• Aquatic kick net
• Pond net technique
• Sample jars and vials
• Field notebook and recording format
• GPS / grid reference basics

Collection Techniques - Terrestrial Methods

• Sweep netting in grassland and margins
• Beating shrubs and low canopy
• Leaf litter sampling
• Turning stones (correct replacement technique)
• Direct searching (bark, deadwood, microhabitats)
• Introduction to pitfall trapping methodology

Freshwater Methods

• Kick sampling technique
• Marginal vegetation sampling
• Sediment disturbance technique
• Sorting from trays in the field

Working Smart in the Field

• Reading the sun and wind direction
• Timing surveys (temperature thresholds & insect activity)
• Working in heat (hydration & specimen care)
• Working in cold (reduced mobility awareness)
• Avoiding specimen overheating in tubes
• Managing condensation
• Efficient kit setup and workflow