Insect Safari
Time Length: 30 -40 minutes

Materials
Magnifying acrylic boxes, insect diagram. Optional insect worksheet, clipboard and pencils.

Procedure

1. During the walk through the Arboretum, talk about the smallest creatures that live in the Arboretum. What kind of bugs would we expect to discover? What is the role of insects? Discuss habitat, community and roles of predator/prey.

2. After gathering in a circle show the students a picture of an insect and name the body parts that make an insect specifically different from other "bugs"

3. Give everyone in the group a insect box, or one box per 2 students. Explain that we are going on an "insect safari." Designate boundaries for the search and encourage students to examine different habitats and micro-habitats. The mulch around trees is a likely spot to dig for bugs, but remember that many tree roots are close to the surface and digging can damage them.

4. When every one has a bug, regroup into the circle. Everyone can share information about their "bug" or insect and the boxes are passed around. During the sharing time, have the students explain where they will release their bugs - a bug found in the dirt will not survive if it is put into a tree! An instructor may choose to have the students make a drawing of their insects and bugs using the worksheets and clipboards.

5. Make sure that all bugs and insects are released back into their habitats.