Preserving a Dragonfly: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preserving a dragonfly can be a fascinating project for both educational purposes and as a unique piece of natural art. It involves several key steps, from humanely capturing a dragonfly to properly drying and displaying it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
Materials Needed
- A net for capturing the dragonfly
- Ethyl acetate or a similar insect-killing jar
- Non-corrosive pins
- Styrofoam or a pinning board
- A spreading board (for spreading the wings)
- Clear glue or nail polish (optional)
- A display case (optional)
Step 1: Humane Capture
The first step is to capture a dragonfly without causing it too much stress or damage. Early mornings or cooler evenings are the best times for this, as dragonflies are less active and easier to catch. Use a net with a gentle sweeping motion to catch the dragonfly, being careful not giving it harm.
Step 2: Ethically Dispatch the Dragonfly
Once you have captured the dragonfly, you will need to humanely dispatch it. One common method is using an insect-killing jar filled with ethyl acetate. Place the dragonfly inside and seal the jar. The dragonfly will quickly be overcome by the fumes and die.
Step 3: Prepare for Pinning
After the dragonfly has been dispatched, you should pin it as soon as possible to prevent the body from drying in an undesirable position. Mount a pin through the thorax of the dragonfly, being mindful to keep it straight and centered.
Step 4: Wing Positioning
Place the dragonfly on a spreading board. Using additional pins, gently position the wings to your desired angle, usually spread out to the sides to display the wing patterns. Be careful not to damage the delicate wing membrane.
Step 5: Drying
Allow the dragonfly to dry in a safe, dry place out of direct sunlight for a week or more, depending on the size of the dragonfly and the humidity of your area. The drying process is crucial as it fixes the dragonfly in its final position.
Step 6: Protecting the Specimen
Once the dragonfly is completely dry, you can choose to apply a thin layer of clear glue or clear nail polish to the wings to provide additional protection and prevent them from becoming brittle over time.
Step 7: Displaying Your Dragonfly
For display, you can mount the dragonfly in a shadow box or display case. Ensure the case is sealed to protect from dust and any potential insect pests. Include an information label with the dragonfly’s species name, date, and location of capture.
Throughout this process, it is important to be respectful to the dragonfly and to the environment from which it comes. Remember to adhere to local wildlife laws and regulations. Collecting dragonflies is prohibited in many areas without proper permits, as it can negatively affect the population and the ecosystem.
By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and educational display that honors the natural beauty of dragonflies.