When identifying insects, you must take time to look at what features an insect my have. This includes counting legs, position of wings and color variations. I know that it may be difficult to get close to such a creature, but with careful observation, you'll identify your insect in no time!
First, you must determine if the creature you are holding is actually an insect! Look at the critter. Does it have six legs? Does it have antennae? Does it have wings? Now look closer - does it have three body parts (you may have to flip it over!)? If you answered yes to most of these questions, you indeed have an insect. All insects have these characteristics at some stage of their lives. If you find that you actually have a critter with eight legs (or more), two body parts (or less), no antennae, or no wings, you probably are looking at a spider or a close relative of a spider.
First, you must determine if the creature you are holding is actually an insect! Look at the critter. Does it have six legs? Does it have antennae? Does it have wings? Now look closer - does it have three body parts (you may have to flip it over!)? If you answered yes to most of these questions, you indeed have an insect. All insects have these characteristics at some stage of their lives. If you find that you actually have a critter with eight legs (or more), two body parts (or less), no antennae, or no wings, you probably are looking at a spider or a close relative of a spider.
