Nebraska 4-H's Special Entomology Project for 2023 is Grasshoppers. There are two fair classes: Special Entomology Project and Special Entomology Project Display.
Grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Sub-order Caelifera) have long been recognized for their importance on Earth. They are a staple food resource in many areas in Africa and Asia, a destructive pest on many agricultural crops and known for their roles in the arts and literature. In Nebraska, as of 2008, there have been 108 known species of short-horned Grasshoppers. These insects are often thought of as pests. Only several species have been known to damage crops, while others can be beneficial for eating weedy plants that can be harmful to livestock. These arthropods have been a favorite of collectors for their large size, attractive colors and large jumping hind legs.
SPECIAL ENTOMOLOGY PROJECT
Class H810001 - Special Entomology Project — Educational exhibit based on what was learned from the project. Present information on a poster no larger than 22” x 28” either vertical or horizontal arrangement or in a clear plastic report cover. The 4-H member’s name, age, full address, and county must be on the back of the poster or report cover. Reports may include life cycle, distribution of the insect, insect behavior (ex. nesting, finding food, mobility, defenses, etc.); habitats (e.g. forests, grasslands, wetlands, rivers, or lakes). May include a certain species or broad overview of the family or group of insects.
Class H810002 - Special Entomology Project Display — The current years' Special Entomology Project pinned species along with a one to two report of what was learned from researching the insect type. Reports may include life cycle, distribution of the insect, insect behavior (ex. nesting, finding food, mobility, defenses, etc.); habitats (e.g. forests, grasslands, wetlands, rivers, or lakes). May include a certain species or broad overview of the family or group of insects. *Pinned insects do not have to be from current year.
Register for EE&ES: Entomology (D) Insectigator on 4-H online. Use scoresheet SF 187.
SUGGESTED RESOURCES:
• The Grasshoppers (Orthorptera: Acrididae and Romaleidae) of Nebraska Brust, (2008) M.L., W.W. Hoback, R.J. Wright
• https://entomology.unl.edu/grasshoppers
• http://www.uwyo.edu/entomology/grasshoppers
• Field Guide to Grasshoppers, Katydids, and Crickets of the United States, (2004) Capinera J.L., R.D. Scott and T.J. Walker Comstock Publishing Associates; 1st edition