Build Your Own Bug Box
Learn more about interesting critters with an easy-to-make bug box. All you need
is a clean, clear container (like a glass or plastic jar), wax paper and a thumb tack. If you want, you can add some leaves or sticks to the inside of the container so your bug buddy will have stuff to play around on. When you gently catch a bug (make sure it’s a safe one to grab – if you’re not sure, ask an adult), place it in the jar and cover the top with the paper. Poke some holes in it with the tack for air. Then observe the bug. Can it fly? How many legs does it have? Can you see its face? When you’re done, gently release the critter in the same place you found it.
Learn More About Crawling Critters
Are you an ant adopter? An earwig enthusiast? A caterpillar comrade? Next time you’re out in one of Wisconsin’s awesome parks or camping spots and you want to learn more about the bugs you spot, the University of Wisconsin has a cool tool to help you out. Visit insectid.wisc.edu to see over 200 of the bugs you can find in our state. Try to match the ones you see to the photos on the site – then learn more about them!
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
Finding Fireflies
1. Riverside Park
1500 E. RIVERSIDE PL.
This park is prime firefly territory, with dense plants and moist land from the river. On a good night, there might be thousands flying around.
2. Hart Park
7300 W. CHESTNUT ST., WAUWATOSA
The Menomonee River that runs alongside the park makes for an ideal environment for the floating, flickering little creatures.
3. Humboldt Park
3000 S. HOWELL AVE.
The big lagoon at this hilly Bay View park attracts hundreds of fireflies in bright swarms every year.
4. Lakeshore State Park
500 N. HARBOR DR.
During the summer months, this park – with an amazing view of Milwaukee – comes alive with lightning bugs attracted to the water.
SPONSORED CONTENT FROM CHILDREN’S WISCONSIN
1. Wear long sleeves, pants and sneakers.
2. Pick darker colored clothes. Bugs are attracted to bright colors.
3. Don’t use smelly soaps or lotions. You might like the smell, but so do bugs!
4. Use picaridin bug repellent – it’s healthier than DEET, and it really works.
5. If you get bit, don’t scratch it. Try an anti-itch spray like Eucerin or Sarna instead.
6. If a bug bite hurts, use a cold, wet washcloth or ice wrapped in a towel on it.
7. If itching or swelling lasts longer than three or four days, it’s time to talk to your doctor.
