Bugs Caught in the Web

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Don't look now, but we're surrounded! They're everywhere — in the yard, in the trees, in our houses, and maybe under our beds! They aren't creatures from another planet — they're those creepy, crawly, and always fascinating, bugs!

Let's begin getting to know these fellow creatures with one of the oldest species around, the venerable cockroach. Did you know these guys have been around an estimated 280+ million years? That's before the dinosaurs' time! There are more than 5,000 types of cockroaches; the largest is 6 inches long with a wing span of over a foot! Find out more fascinating facts about roaches at Yucky Roach World. At Roach Anatomy you can investigate the body of the roach, both inside and out. Check out how many lenses are in a cockroach eye; then examine its heart, lungs, brain. You'll never guess where the brain is located. Before you leave, be sure to take the cockroach quiz or listen to the distinctive roach rustle.

If you're ready for some serious bug hunting, check out the Iowa State Entomology site. Browse the Insect Information to learn about all kinds of bugs — from the Camel Cricket to the Strawberry Root Weevil. Then get a close-up look at stink bugs, spider mites, and more at the Insect Image Gallery. Need a snack after an exhausting day of bug-watching? Check out the tempting Insect Recipes like Bug Blox and Banana Worm Bread. Want to see things through the eyes of a honeybee? Then check out B-Eye and see what a bee sees.

Books for Teaching About Bugs, Insects, and Spiders
Teacher created book list includes tips for classroom use.

General Facts about Insects and Bugs
When is an insect not a bug?

Answers to Kids' Miscellaneous Questions About Insects
Why do mosquito bites itch?

LESSON PLAN	Going Buggy! Presents an overview of the study of insects and bugs, covering basic science skills, such as classification, observation, and responses to habitat.
UNIT PLAN	Watch Your Step! Presents a unit on the lifecycles and fascinating characteristics of insects. Kids learn by creating their own butterfly figures and engaging...
ONLINE ACTIVITY	Costa Rican Caterpillars Join research teams in Costa Rica to learn about tropical forest ecosystems, the important role of caterpillars within an ecosystem, and the...