Other Insects in My Traps.

[leptraps]

Because I only collect Lepidoptera, I have been asked numerous times what I do with all of the other insects from my traps. I do keep some of the other groups of insect that I collect. Many I keep for others. Virtually all the Coleoptera are spoken for. I field pin some of the more interesting insects. I will take boxes of field pinned insects to meetings I attend. I normally return home with empty boxes.

As you can see in the photographs, I use a lot of pins.

Attachments:

[trehopr1]

Lots of "nifty" happenstance collections from your traps !

Those large ichneumon wasps are curious finds indeed. I have collected the species which you have but, only as very seldom encountered finds whilst in the field with net. I also, like all the Diptera present. I'm sure they represent the BEST of the "cuzzillions" which you must surely encounter every year. Diptera are my 3rd favorite order...

You have mentioned that you give away a lot of this stuff; albeit with little (give back) in return. I however, can offer a small series of "fine" fresh hatch Catocala lacrymosa in exchange. We could work on a trade if you like -- (flies for C. lacrymosa). I had an especially good night many years ago when I was on a "hatch". In 3 hours I took 85 lacrymosa; all top notch. I have only thus far pinned about half of them so the other half are field pinned and need spreading. I kept only the best and released the rest that night.

This is only an offer. If not interested for whatever reasons I'm all good with it.

[foxxdoc]

Impressed !!!!!!!!!!!!!

TOM

[leptraps]

At one time I just gave the specimens away. I never ask for anything in return other than some insect pins. I have never received a single #2 pin.

Most of the Ichneumonidae wasps I retain. They have always interested me. Since returning to North East Ohio, I have not seen a single Ichneumonid wasp.

[leptraps]

I am not positive about Ichnomidae wasp not gaining access to my Slotted Pan Bait Traps, after taking a good look at my specimens of Ichneumonidae, I would bet some serious coins that they, especially the ones with the long tails, can not negotiate the slots.

[leptraps]

I did not realize that Ichnomidae wasps were so popular. Prior to those I collected in Flat Bottom Type Bait Traps, I remember seeing them on the wing during some of my trips to collect in western Kentucky.

One of my trips to western Kentucky turned up a dozen or more of those large green rhinoceros beetles in Light Traps. They know how to destroy moths!!

[trehopr1]

Here is a picture Leptraps of a couple species of those
large ichneumons (prepared). These are in a friends collection
however, I also have the same two prepared-up just as nicely !

His just happen to be in the same unit tray whereas, mine are
in located in 2 separate drawers. We both spread ours on spreading
boards (just like lepidoptera); only those long mid + hind legs
just tend to lay flat on the board surface.

[leptraps]

You did a much better job of preparing ichneumonid specimens than me. I seem to collect specimens of insects families out of curiousity. I have two or three species of Velvet Ants. Talk about a nasty sting. Get stung by a Velvet Ant and you will say all kinds of bad words.

However, all of these other interest is just my curiousity. Part of the problem is that I am constantly using Light Traps and Bait Traps. Then again, I am retired.

Yesterday's high temperature was 29°. Today the high temperature will be above 60° and tonights low in the upper 50's. I will have lot's of winter moths in my Bait Traps. I may even set out a light Trap or two.

[foxxdoc]

more fly pictures please.

TOM

[leptraps]

Please give me several days. I am preparing for my relocation. I will depart tomorrow AM or the day after for Kentucky and then to Gainesville. Florida. After returning home I will have some decisions to make for the future.

[leptraps]

I started this discussion as I have over a dozen Bait Traps deployed, including one in my back yard. I stick pins in lots of insects from those traps. Some of you have received some of those specimens at no cost.

On a personal note, I have struggled with the loss of my wife of 55 years. I am not sure who I owe product too. Should you have placed an order or made a purchase and have not received your order, please let me know and I will promptly respond.

Again, if you have placed an order and have not received your order, please let me know ASAP.

[thejsonboss]

Really sorry to hear that. 55 years is an amazing length of time. I'm here to talk if you need.

[tarm]

Thanks for all you do for the community! Sorry to hear about the loss!