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Stuff Every Insect Study Scout Should Know: the Study Guide

Practice facts for the Insect Study merit badge. Not an official Scouting America credential. Grab a snack: this guide is the friendly version, with the answers explained and a groan-worthy joke waiting at the end of most cards.

Knowing Insect Study Scout saves you money, time and the occasional embarrassment.

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Chapter 1: Weather and Water

What is a formicarium?

Short answer: An ant farm for observing a colony

A formicarium is an ant farm used to observe an ant colony, including the queen and workers.

Groan of the day: A formicarium is an ant's tiny apartment building.

Sources: Scouting America: Insect Study

What is medical entomology focused on?

Short answer: Insects and arthropods that impact human health

Medical entomology focuses on insects and arthropods that affect human health.

Groan of the day: Medical entomology keeps health on the radar.

Sources: Entomology

The cheat sheet

The whole guide on one screen. Screenshot it, print it, stick it on the fridge.

  • Entomology is the branch of zoology that focuses on insects, so entomologists study insects.
  • Estimates suggest over 5.5 million insect species exist, with about 1 million formally described.
  • Butterflies and, to a lesser extent, dragonflies are the most popular identification hobby insects.
  • The Entomological Society of America launched the ACE certification for the pest control industry.
  • Scouts should follow local laws and avoid collecting protected or endangered species.
  • Scouts observe 20 different live species in their habitat, including at least four orders.
  • Observations should include at least four orders of insects.
  • CCD is a serious condition where honey bee colonies mysteriously die, affecting food supply.
  • Biological control uses natural enemies of pests and is an alternative to insecticides.
  • The monarch goes from egg to adult in about a month, so check daily for progress.
  • Monarchs often lay eggs under the first few sets of leaves toward the top of the plant.
  • An adult monarch ready for release flaps its bright orange wings trying to get out.

Pop quiz

Think of your answer first, then peek.

  1. What is the main job of an entomologist?
    • Studying insects
    • Building birdhouses
    • Planting trees
    Show the answer

    Studying insects. Entomology is the branch of zoology that focuses on insects, so entomologists study insects.

  2. Where do monarchs often lay eggs on milkweed?
    • On nearby rocks
    • Under leaves near the top of the plant
    • On the roots underground
    Show the answer

    Under leaves near the top of the plant. Monarchs often lay eggs under the first few sets of leaves toward the top of the plant.

  3. Why is collecting insects sparingly important?
    • It makes the collection look neater
    • It helps insects grow larger
    • It protects the environment and local populations
    Show the answer

    It protects the environment and local populations. Ethical collecting means taking only what you need so your practices do not harm the environment.

  4. What should you identify about eight species from your scrapbook?
    • Their role in the ecosystem
    • Their selling price
    • Their favorite color
    Show the answer

    Their role in the ecosystem. Scouts select eight species and identify the role each plays in the ecosystem.

  5. What challenge do migrating monarch butterflies face?
    • No need to travel at all
    • Loss of habitat and food along the route
    • Too much milkweed everywhere
    Show the answer

    Loss of habitat and food along the route. Monarch migration faces challenges, and Scouts can help by supporting habitat and food.

Now make it stick

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