Buggy Bodies
Insects are a type of arthropod with a three segment exoskeleton body and six legs. If you see a critter with a different number of legs or body segments, it might be a different kind of arthropod like a spider or centipede. Let's learn how to identify an insect!
The head contains the eyes, mouth, and antannae of the inset.
The thorax is the middle section with powerful muscles for moving legs and wings.
The abdomen is the largest section and holds the digestive organs.
Insects have six legs attached to the thorax. If there are more, it's a different arthropod.
Endoskeleton
Hard bones on the inside provide structure and soft tissue sits on outside. This is what people have!
Exoskeleton
Hard structural shell on the outside acts like a suit of armor, providing structure and protecting soft insides.
Bug Blitz!
Now that we know how to identify insects, let's see how many we can find! Insects may all share the same basic parts, but they come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Can you find any of these insects on your adventure today? Tap each insect to check them off as you find them.
-
Grasshopper
-
Ant
-
Fly
-
Dragonfly
-
Bee
-
Butterfly
Arthropod Architects
Bugs are amazing builders. Sometimes they work alone, but sometimes they work together to build big and complex structures. Can you find any of these buggy building projects? Tap any you find to check them off.
-
Spider Web
-
Wasp Nest
-
Cocoon
-
Ant Hill
-
Caterpillar Tent
When you finish your hike, tap the button below to TRACK your adventure!