Interactive Insect Collection Lab
Here’s where you’ll start your collection. Have fun!
Making an Insect Collection in Real Life videos
In the following videos Dr. Bundy, Professor of Entomology and Director of the NMSU Arthropod Collection, demonstrates how to prepare and create an insect pinning collection. Suggestions for collecting insects found here.
Preparing Insects for Pinning
Insects that are dry have to be softened to pin. Watch this guide on how to relax insects to prepare them. NMSU Arthropod Collection
Setting Up a Relaxing Chamber
After being in the freezer, your insects may be brittle. This video shows you how to create a relaxing chamber to soften your insects. NMSU Arthropod Collection
Mounting and Preserving Insects
When you are ready to make your own collection, watch videos here on how to use a pinning block, and how to pin and point other insects for your board. NMSU Arthropod Collection
Spreading a Butterfly
Watch this step by step video on how to spread a butterfly to pin to your board. NMSU Arthropod Collection
Insects Rule The Planet! PDF (intro only)
Review these activities from the New Mexico State University Entomology project. (Ask your 4-H agent if you’d like the whole project book, or would like to enroll.)