Entomologists, those who study insects, collect these small creatures for a variety of reasons. Many began their career with the hobby of hunting for insects. With such a variety and abundance of insects to explore, they never grow tired of learning about them. No matter how you measure it, insects make up the vast majority of life on earth. It is estimated that for every 100 pounds of people, there are 300 pounds of insects.
Every good hunter knows the quarry well.
Here are some amazing facts to help you, the budding entomologist, know your prey. Insects are found everywhere on earth except in the ocean depths. Over 1 million species of insects have been named, and every year scientists name approximately 1,000 new ones. Although a few insects can be harmful, the vast majority are beneficial, serving as a prey base for larger animals, such as birds, mammals and fish, or as pollinators. Two of Missouri's largest insects include the Cecropia moth and the regal moth, with wing spans of 6 inches.