![](http://extadmin.ifas.ufl.edu/nwdistrictmedia/ph-4-h/2017/02/10_summercamps-300x240.jpg)
There are two kinds of people in the world- those that think bugs are really cool and those that run screaming from anything that slightly resembles an insect. If you or a family member are the former, then prepare to be excited! We are happy to announce that there will be a new competitive event coming to Florida 4-H. It is being developed by a team of specialists, volunteers and youth who are passionate about the exciting world of entomology. The Florida 4-H Insectathon will be held January 20th, 2018 in Gainesville, FL and will include the following events:
- Insect Collection Contest
- Honey Bee Essay Contest
- Insect Art Contest
- Entomology Identification and Skill-a-thon Contest
- Educational tours for both contest participants and their family members
This event will help youth master skills such as how to use a dichotomous key, how to make observations, record keeping skills, pinning skills, and communication skills- it may even aspire some youth to pursue a career related to entomology! To help volunteers, parents and youth get started, the experts will be teaching a workshop here in the Panhandle on Saturday, May 6th, from 10AM-2PM. Registration is open March 1st through April 28th via 4HOnline. Participants will receive hands-on experience collecting, identifying and pinning insects, as well as a startup kit of resources to share with other youth in your county. Counties are encouraged to send a team of youth and adults to this workshop. Lunch will be provided, so there is a small fee of $15.00/person.
If you have a passion for nature and would like to inspire the next generation, consider sharing your expertise as a 4-H entomology project or resource leader. For more information, contact your local UF IFAS Extension Office, or visit http://florida4h.org.
Other Resources of Interest:
- Florida 4-H Entomology Project
- 4-H Bug Club (links to entomology project guides)
- Beekeeping in the Panhandle Annual Workshop and Tradeshow, April 21-22 in Chipley, FL