Question: How do you identify trees and insects?
Research: Once you’ve collected your specimens, your work’s half done! If you’re still in the process of collecting leaves, note the shape of the tree and remember that some trees have compound leafs (so grab the whole leaf, not just a leaflet). Also, don’t rule out conifers; they’re identifiable, too.
The library has a great collection of sources to get your identification underway. Start with the World Book Encyclopedia to familiarize yourself with the basics of your subject and find some photos of many familiar trees and insects. Next, move onto books like Illustrated Encyclopedia of Trees, Forest Trees of Oklahoma, Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Trees and Knowing Your Trees.
For identifying insects try DK’s Insects, Spiders and Other Terrestrial Arthropods, National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Insects and Spiders and Peterson’s Field Guide to Insects.
Keep in mind that these are only a few of the titles the library owns. You can do a library catalog search to find more resources; try these subjects – trees identification, leaves identification and insects identification.
There are also several online sources to use. The pathfinder for Identifying Trees by Their Leaves is a great place to start. The University of Florida’s Entomology Department site lists insects by Order and Family and if you found the insect in or around your home, try the Orkin Learning Center. National Arbor Day Foundation’s site takes you through a list of questions to find your species.
For basic information on insects you might also check out EBSCO’s Encyclopedia of Animals online database. It offers full-text, in-depth information on the nature and habitat of animals, including insects.
If you’ve exhausted our resources and still have some specimens you’re having trouble identifying, consider contacting a Naturalist at the Oxley Nature Center (669-6653) here in Tulsa!
If you have any questions, contact your local library or ask a librarian!