Why Study Insects?

Insects impact our lives every day. They come in many sizes—some so small you need a microscope to see them and others several inches long. Many insect species are extremely beneficial to humans, while others are nuisances or even worse, a risk to staying healthy.

Because insects are so numerous and widespread, they are easy to study, whether you focus on your own backyard, the garden, around your house, the neighborhood, or anywhere in the world you want to travel. Estimates indicate as many as 10 million insect species on earth with only about 1 million currently named. This means there are more species of insects in the world than all other living things combined.

Scientists that study insects are called entomologists. If you are interested in learning about insects and pursuing a career in this area, there are many entomology-related careers. These include beekeepers, microbiologists, pest control technicians, environmental scientists, chemical technicians, forensic science technicians, environmental engineers, naturalists, biologists, and many others.

Why Participate in the Alabama 4-H Entomology Project?

The Alabama 4-H Entomology Project gives young people the opportunity to learn about insects while exploring the field of entomology and possibly planning for their future either academically, professionally, or even while enjoying it as a hobby. Through this project, youth will follow scientifically approved processes as they learn about and make their own insect collections. This project allows participating youth to build on their collection throughout their 4-H years, ages 9 through 18. Youth are also encouraged to present their collection and share what they have learned about insects with others in the community.

This project is designed to be done independently and builds upon itself each year. See the insect collection guidelines and rules in the “Competitive Events General Policy” publication on the Alabama Extension website at www.aces.edu. The following information provides guidance and information to youth who choose to participate in this project and make their
own insect collection.

Read More

To read the full version of this publication, download a PDF of Alabama 4-H Entomology Project: Studying Insects & Developing Your Own Insect Collection, 4HYD-2572.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal opportunity educator, employer, and provider. If you need a reasonable accommodation or language access services, contact Doyle Keasal at keasade@aces.edu.

Doyle Keasal, Extension Associate, Alabama 4-H, Auburn University

New April 2025, Alabama 4-H Entomology Project: Studying Insects & Developing Your Own Insect Collection, 4HYD-2572