IS653 Collecting Insects - Standard 4-H Display Box

The standard 4-H Display Box is a storage unit for pinned insects, a unique display case and, if properly built and outfitted, a source of protection for collected specimens. The sturdy construction of the box protects the collection when you carry it from place to place.

The more airtight the box, the more insect scavenger protected it can be. To protect the insect collection from scavengers, put mothballs (or crystals) or an insect kill strip in the box. Attach the strip or the moth-balls in one corner of the box by using netting or insect pins. A small piece of kill strip gives good protection for several months.

Over the years the standard 4-H box has been 18x24x3¸ inches, making it somewhat larger than most other entomological boxes. It is also difficult for younger 4-H'ers to handle. As of July 1999 the 4-H box was standardized to 19x16¸X3 (outside dimensions). This will help 4-H collectors handle boxes more easily and also allow storage of boxes in standard insect cabinets. The old, larger boxes will also be acceptable for displaying insects at fairs and contests.

Holding Boxes

Almost any box with a secure top can serve as a temporary holding box for insect specimens. It is important to secure pinned specimens in a tight (airtight if possible) box soon after pinning. Scavengers can attack pinned specimens and destroy a collection in a matter of weeks.

Cigar boxes that are deeper than 2-inches make ideal holding boxes. In the bottom of the box, place a piece of flexible styrofoam or other soft medium that will support a pin. (Don't forget to put a small piece of kill strip or a mothball in the box to protect against scavengers.) You can adapt other sturdy boxes in much the same way. For short-term storage, use plastic boxes for this purpose. Specimens tend to collect moisture and mold in these types of boxes, so you probably need to add silica packets to plastic containers when they are used for insect storage. You can build a holding box much like the standard display box, but you need to use a tight fitting lid instead of glass.

You can purchase the Standard 4-H Display Box and holding boxes. For more information on where to purchase the standard boxes or holding boxes, contact the Entomology and Plant Pathology Department, Mississippi State, MS 39762.

Materials to Build a Standard 4-H Display Box

Part	Quantity	Materials	Size (inches)
A - End	1	white pine	3/4 x 3 x 17¸
B - End	1	white pine	3/4 x 2 2/5 x 17 1/2
C - Sides	2	white pine	3/4 x 3x 16 1/2
D - Bottom	1	plywood	1/8 x 16 1/2 x 19
E - Pinning surface	1	foam	1/2 x 15 x 17 1/2
F - Top	1	glass	1/8 x 16 x 18 1/8
Use paneling nails or small wood screws to secure the box. For construction details, see illustrations.

Revised and distributed by Michael R. Williams, Ph.D., Extension Entomologist.

Mississippi State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or veteran status.

Information Sheet 653
Extension Service of Mississippi State University, cooperating with U.S. Department of Agriculture. Published in furtherance of Acts of Congress, May 8 and June 30, 1914. RONALD A. BROWN, Director