“Bugwatching: The Art, Joy, and Importance of Observing Insects” by Eric R. Eaton, illustrated by Samantha Gallagher

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Rating: 4/5 Stars.

There are plenty of books and programmes that introduce birdwatching, but few (or none) on bugwatching, and this books helps to fill that gap. An introduction to bugwatching, or observing insects (or arthropods, in general), it aims to introduce the reader to the various bugs that can be found and how to learn to appreciate them.

The book starts with how to watch bugs safely; most bugs are harmless to people, but some (like wasps and caterpillars) can inflict pain for defence, so the usual rule is to observe (or listen), but not to touch or disturb bugs too much. The ethics of bugwatch is also covered, like being respectful of people and property. Field guides and equipment for bugwatching is also covered, followed by ways to record observations.

Finding bugs is covered next, covering seasons and the time when various insects can be found and are active. Areas for observing insects are also covered, including urban areas and even indoors. Ways of attracting insects, from putting out bait, employing traps to putting up lights are also presented, which should be done in an ethical manner.

Identifying insects is covered next, showing various ways to distinguish between different insects and the various life stages of insects. But the author stresses that proper identification can be difficult, even for experts.

Besides observing bugs, their behaviour can also be observed: courtship, mating, parental care, grooming, sleeping, mass emergence, defenses and so on can be fascinating to see. Bugwatching can also be a social activity, either on-line or in actual groups that form for workshops or nature festivals.

Advanced bugwatching is then provided, for those who wish to contribute to research by help to collect and identify insects. Other ways, like volunteering for projects and donations are also covered.

In summary, the book provides a guide to observing more the nature around you. The book is mainly aimed at a North American audience, but some of the guidelines and proposals are general enough to apply to other parts of the world.

Book read from 2026/03/17 to 2026/03/19.