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- Entomology
Have you chased butterflies or caught a ladybug to get a closer look? Do you think collecting bugs is a great way to spend your time? Then the 4-H Entomology project is right up your alley. Youth will learn about the world of insects in soil, on plants, in homes, on pets and other secret places.
Explore Your Spark!
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Things to Learn and Do
![]() Each 4-H project offers a variety of activities and learning opportunities to suit your interests and strengths. Whether you're just getting started or taking your knowledge to the next level, there are several activities to learn and do throughout your project experience! |
Beginner
- Learn the main parts of an insect
- Make an insect net
- Collect, pin, label and exhibit an insect collection
Intermediate
- Understand how insects are used in advertising
- Find out how insects move
- Learn about insecticides
Advanced
- Learn about insect behavior
- Plant a butterfly garden
- Catch and observe a spider in its web
- Conduct an insect survey of your neighborhood
Project Materials
Reasonably priced materials are available for every project in Kansas 4-H. You can order the materials for your project online or contact your local Extension Office.
Entomology (EN100)
- Teaming with Insects: Entomology Level 1 (grades 3-5)
- Teaming with Insects: Entomology Level 2 (grades 6-8)
- Teaming with Insects: Entomology Level 3 (grades 9-12)
- Teaming with Insects: Facilitator's Guide
Project Butterfly Wings
Kansas 4-H Entomology Resources
- Guidelines for Collecting and Exhibiting
- Entomology Notebook Collection 2020
- 4-H Entomology Judges Webinar, April 2016
- Insects in Kansas Book: 2016 Revised Taxonomy
- Insect Orders Taxonomy
- Tips on Exhibiting Collections
- Introduction to Insects
- Insect Life Cycles
- Pinning and Labeling Insects
- Tips on Spreading Butterflies and Moths
- 4-H Entomology Order Labels: Option A- Insects of Kansas (pdf)
- 4-H Entomology Order Labels: Option B- BugGuide.net (word doc)
- Name and Location Label Template (word doc)
- Entomology Insect Collection Record
Entomology Scorecards
Websites
Awards and Recognition
County Level
Medal presented at your 4-H award recognition event
State Level
Medallion and Scholarship to attend National 4-H Congress
- Participants may attend National 4-H Congress once as an active 4-H member
National Level
Represent Kansas at National 4-H Congress
Events and Activities
Learn more about project-based events here or contact your local office for additional information.
Next Steps - Career Exploration
Completing a successful 4-H project is just the beginning of finding your spark. Members can take several meaningful steps to further develop skills and interests. Learn more about these exciting opportunities in career exploration: