As warmer weather approaches, many insects are coming out of hiding. A fun beetle to look for is the ladybug. They are easy to recognize by their small red bodies with black spots. Ladybugs eat aphids and other garden pests, making them a well-loved beetle by gardeners and farmers alike. They can live for a year or longer in the wild. In winter months, colonies of thousands hibernate together wherever they can find shelter in rotting logs, under rocks, or even in houses! Use an egg carton to create ladybugs and other insects you might find this spring.
Supplies
- Egg carton
- Scissors (help from an adult if needed)
- Markers
- Paint (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cut the lid off of your egg carton. You will only need the base for this project.
Step 2: Cut out the egg cups and trim to create bodies for your insects. This part can be tricky, ask an adult for help if you need it. To make a longer insect, like a caterpillar, leave the egg cups connected in a line.
Step 3: Use markers or paint to color your insect. A lady bug has a red body, black spots and a black face. You can create a colony of ladybugs or a variety of different insects.
To watch this process visit youtube.com/PeabodyEssexMuseum
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