ABSTRACT
The use of insect life cycles and insect succession can provide helpful investigative indicators. A forensic entomologist should be able to provide a good estimate of the amount of time that the infestation site has been active. Before transporting the collected samples, for an investigator it is advisable to contact the entomologist who will be conducting the analysis. The entomologist often has a collection questionnaire that explains all observations and recordings required for the analysis. Using a figure-eight motion, the investigator can collect flying insects with an insect net from the area immediately around and above the victim. The investigator should carefully examine the surrounding soil and soil beneath the body for insects, pupae, and pupae casings. The investigator can collect any crawling insects from the surface of the wound site or body opening using forceps or gloved fingers.
