Pin-up Insects

Gary Beukman and Paula Strauss, entomologists of the Green Futures Conservation Team, are working on an ongoing entomological survey and are building a database of insects to show faunal diversity at the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. They have started pinning insects – an old and delicate art form that involves sampling insects from the field, preserving them and gently extending the wings and legs. Building this database is in order to identify possible new species in this, the most diverse group of organisms, and to encourage further scientific studies and collaborations with academic and research institutions.