Knowledge is power - become an insect expert now!

The decline in insects is on everyone's lips. Climate change, intensive land use and the loss of food and habitat are the main reasons for this. Because a change requires above all knowledge, it loads │ nature conservation association │ with the “Insect World Experience” introduces young and old into the colorful world of insects. Whether online event, quiz or excursion - thanks to a wide range of offers, everyone can become an insect connoisseur and ultimately a nature conservationist!

The six-legged animals come in a wide variety of sizes, colors and shapes and represent the most species-rich class of animals. In Austria alone there are around 40 species of insects. In addition, the crawfish are often record holders in a wide variety of disciplines: The smallest among them are only a fraction of a millimeter in size, whereas the largest representatives - the stick insects - are real giants with a length of up to 000 cm. Others, on the other hand, have bear strength and lift many times their body weight or jump many times their body length.

Knowledge of species is fundamental to maintaining diversity

They are part of our everyday life and not only play an important role in the ecosystem as pollinators. Nevertheless, we still know far too little about everything that creeps and flies. "With the 'Insect World Experience', the Naturschutzbund would like to promote knowledge and create a new awareness for the so-called insects", emphasizes Roswitha Schmuck, project manager of the "Insect World Experience". All those interested in nature who want to find out more about insects, their lives and work are invited. Six groups of species are under www.insektenkenner.at Particularly in focus: Butterflies, bumblebees, dragonflies, grasshoppers, beetles and hoverflies are presented there. But there is also sufficient expertise on bugs, wasps and the like. So it's worth keeping an eye out!

Award for hard-working insect connoisseurs

On the one hand, the project is dedicated to the playful transfer of knowledge. Whether online meeting, excursion or quiz - all over Austria there is a varied program of events in which everyone can actively participate: young and old are invited to post their insect observations with photos on the platform www.nature-observation.at or the app of the same name. The find data is recorded there and can thus be incorporated into research on the distribution of the species. “You don't have to know everything yourself right away: Experts are available in the discussion forum to offer advice and assistance, help with identification and validate incoming reports,” says Schmuck. The species knowledge acquired in this way can be put to the test in a three-stage insect expert quiz from autumn onwards. For everyone who takes part in an event, takes the quiz and shares observations, there are insect expert certificates in gold, silver and bronze as well as a great calendar. In 2022, in addition to detailed profiles, the insect of the month will also be presented at regular intervals.