| Instructions |
A pooter, or insect aspirator, is an entomological device used to collect small, fragile invertebrates by sucking them through a tube into a container. It consists of a jar, two tubes, and a mesh filter to prevent ingestion. HOW TO MAKE A POOTER
Here’s how to make your own:
1. Drilling holes for the pooter
Take a small, clean jar and remove any labels. Using a nail or drill, carefully make two holes in the lid.
2. Adding straws to the pooter
Take two bendy straws or plastic piping (if you can, try to find straws that aren’t made out of plastic) and trim a few centimetres off the end of one. Insert the straws through the lid holes, plugging any gaps with plasticine/prestick. Next, using an elastic band or tape, secure a square of muslin, old tights or gauze over the end of the shorter straw (this keeps the insects away from your mouth).
3. Go find some insects!
When you’ve replaced the lid, it’s time to go pootering! Find an invertebrate, point the long straw at it and suck at the shorter straw. The
insect will plop safely into your jar for observation. Once you’ve had a good look, release the bug carefully where you found it. |