Lost Ladybug Project

A fun idea to try out with your students on the Appalachian Trail!

Over the past twenty years, several native ladybugs that were once very common have become extremely rare. Scientists need to have detailed information on which species are still out there and how many individuals are around. Entomologists at Cornell can identify the different species but they need you to be their legs, hands and eyes.

The Lost Ladybug Project asks you to help find out wehre all the ladybugs have gone so we can try to prevent more native species from becoming so rare. This is the ultimate summer science project for kids and adults! You can learn, have fun and help save these important species. Here's how to participate in the research.

1. Collect: Go collect ladybugs! There are many different colors and shapes.
2. Take Note: Time, location, and habitat (for example, wetlands, meadow, garden).
3. Take Their Picture: Take pictures of all you find but please do not kill the insects.
4. Send the Info & Photos: Send this information and the digital images via www.lostladybug.org (click the "Upload Images" tab).
5. Set Them Free: Please release the ladybugs safely where you foud them.

For excellent ladybug identification guides and information, visit: www.lostladybug.org

Enjoy!