Bug Identification with Kid

Are your kids interested in bugs? Are you looking for fun, educational summer activities to enjoy with your kids? Maybe it’s time you considered a backyard bug identification with kids activity.

You can find the fun and benefits of learning to identify your backyard six- and eight-legged beauties.  

Insects comprise an estimated 80% of all animal species! That’s a lot! There are over 1 million identified species of insects and spiders in the world, with many more still to be discovered. 

Entomology is a useful science, not only for the scientific community, agriculture, or pest control, but for all of us because we all live near or with insects. 

Common Insects You Might Find in Your Backyard Two common types of true bugs found in North America are Assassin Bugs and Box Elder Bugs.  

Assassin Bug ID Assassin bugs are considered beneficial insects because they eat other insects, including many that are considered garden pests. There are about 160 species of assassin bugs in North America. The most identifiable part of the assassin bug is its three-segmented mouthpart, called a rostrum. 

Box Elder Bug ID Box Elder Bugs are very common anywhere there are Box Elder trees, Maple Trees, Ash Trees, and Cherry trees — their preferred food source.  Box Elder Bug adults are usually about ½ inch in length and black with red-rimmed wings and red eyes.

SWIPE UP To learn more about bugs