Birds aren't the only critters in your backyard! Dirt and grass are literally crawling with insects. Try these activities to get a close up look at some cool six-legged creatures.

A ladybug (© Albert P. Bekker/California Academy of Sciences)

Bug Bait
Some insects are active at night rather than during the day. But who has the time—or energy—to stay up all night looking for bugs? Now there's no need to loose sleep: Have an adult cut a grapefruit in half. Then use a spoon to scoop out the fleshy parts. Put the empty grapefruit halves face down in your backyard overnight. When you awaken the next morning, turn over the grapefruits halves to see what types of bugs stopped by for a bite.

Insect Jar
You don't need to rush out to buy a fancy bug jar to get a good look at insects! Just hunt for an interesting bug, then carefully capture it inside a clear jar. Cover the jar with cheesecloth and wrap a rubber band around the jar and cloth to keep the insects inside. When you've finished all of your scientific observations, carefully release the insect in the same spot that you found it.

Just Joking!
Question: What do six-legged insects always complain about? Answer: They never have enough shoes to wear! Do you have a funny insect joke? Write to us below. We'll post the best buggy knee slappers!

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