Y.E.S. POLICY ON THE COLLECTION OF INSECTS SPIDERS, AND OTHER ARTHROPODS

The collection of insect and spider specimens is recognized as an appropriate, valid and necessary activity, well founded in scientific procedure and investigation. Furthermore, this Society recognizes that important contributions can be made to entomological science through the collection of insect specimens by recreational and amateur collectors, as long as such activity is ecologically sound and within the constraints of appropriate guidelines. In so much as insects are a renewable natural resource, this Society recognizes the right of members to collect specimens for display and study, providing the following guidelines and practices which assure preservation and maintenance of biological diversity in perpetuity are met.

We join with other concerned entomological societies and organizations in urging our members to adhere to these, or similar, guidelines.

PURPOSES OF COLLECTING: (1) create reference collections for study and appreciation; (2) document regional diversity, frequency, variability of species as well as representation in environments undergoing or threatened with alteration by man or natural forces; (3) serve as voucher specimens for published records and checklists; (4) compliment a planned research endeavor; (5) aid in dissemination of educational information; and (6) augment our understanding of taxonomic and ecological relationships.

RESTRAINTS ON NUMBERS OF SPECIMENS. Collection of insects should be limited to sampling, not depleting, populations. When collecting where the size of the population is unknown, caution and restraint should be exercised until extent and/or fragility is determined. The use of reared material for obtaining specimens is encouraged. Field collecting should be selective, when possible. When trapping is employed, live traps are preferred to killing traps (which should only be used for planned studies). In any event, all traps should be checked on a regular basis so as to prevent needless destruction of insects.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS. Collection of insect specimens must be undertaken in such a manner as to minimize damage to the environment (habitat, foodplants, etc.). Collectors are also obligated to comply with all laws and regulations concerning collection on public lands, protection of rare, threatened or endangered species or habitats, and transportation and importation of live material.

STEWARDSHIP OF COLLECTED MATERIAL. Collectors are responsible for the following: (1) preservation of specimens with complete data attached; (2) protection of specimens from light, mold, pests and physical damage; (3) collections should be made available for examination by qualified researchers; (4) type specimens (especially holotypes and allotypes) should be deposited in an appropriate institutional collection; (5) specimens or collections, plus any associated written or photographic records, should be offered or willed to an appropriate scientific institution if the collector losses interest, or lacks space, or in anticipation of death. The Young Entomologists' Society, which is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit, is always in need of specimens for use in its educational programs and displays.  Feel free to contact the Society if you are looking for a new home for your collection, or have any other questions regarding the collection of minibeasts.

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This educational resource was prepared by the Young Entomologists Society, 6907 West Grand River Ave., Lansing MI 48906-9131, phone/fax 517-886-0630, e-mail YESbugs@aol.com.  Support minibeast youth education - join Y.E.S. today!