Specimen
Ethically sourced specimen
What does that mean? I collect all of my own critters, and only after they are dead. i do not trap and kill, or buy from breeders/farms.
I love the process of taking something dead, and giving it a new life. one where its beauty can be appreciated, further deepening the connection to nature, and the other living beings who keep the world fruitful.
I also like to use “recycled” frames and bottles when possible. not only is it giving new life to the item, but it’s more cost effective.
June bug
Collected: Utah
found in my mom’s garage in this perfect position. This was my first time working with a specimen that I couldn’t just hot glue down. I had to get creative in order to preserve the delicate legs and wings.
I struggled hard with the bug being so top heavy. it would tip over or tumble out of my tweezers. I screamed in fear at least twice as it tumbled to the floor. I did my best but as with just about every project i do, I learned a lot.
giant water bug
Collected: Utah
after a winter of heavy snow fall, the lake near my mom’s house rose a lot that year and attracted so many mosquitos. the heightened population brought in lots of other critters, including this giant water bug. he was in mom’s backyard in this great position.
Black widow
Collected: Utah
i acquired this beautiful lady at work. My boss knew I love collecting insects, so he let me know as soon as i got in that day they had a black widow for me.
unfortunely, she met her end due to the insecticide used, but they felt it was a neccesity in order to protect the employees.
dragon-mantis ménage à trois
Collected: Utah
these three were collected within the same very abundant week. the two dragonflies were collected from the parking lot of my old job and the praying mantis was found in the parking lot of my apartment.
