ABSTRACT

I the preceding chapters, emphasis has been placed on the collecting of insects. Probably, most profes-sional entomologists started their study of insects by collecting them. At the beginning, only simple tools are required; as the collection enlarges, more specialized equipment is added. From the study of the foregoing chapters, it should be apparent that a goal should be set before proceeding further. Many insect collections have been started and then discarded without contributing much, if anything, to the knowledge of the collector. It should be remembered that the collection is only a beginning, not an end in itself. A knowledge of the complex and fascinating habits of the living insect should be the ultimate goal.