For ethical reasons, it is preferable to send us photographs of insects or other arthropods for identification. This limits the impact of captures on arthropod populations. As a last resort, submitting a specimen is an option when necessary for identification. Here’s the procedure.
Preparing a specimen
First, make sure that your specimen is no longer alive. Here are two easy and approved preparation methods:
1. Freezing
Place the specimen in the freezer for at least 3 days before sending it to us. If you are mailing it, let it air-dry for several days, then place it in a rigid-walled container. Add cotton or tissue paper to prevent the specimen from breaking against the container walls.
2. Rubbing alcohol
This method is recommended for soft-bodied arthropods (such as spiders). Use a watertight container and submerge the specimen in rubbing alcohol. Place it in the freezer beforehand to ensure quicker euthanasia.
Shipment or transport of specimen
Once your specimen is prepared and packaged, you can bring it to the Insectarium or ship it by mail.
At the Insectarium
When your specimen is ready, you can drop it off at the museum’s reception desk.
By mail
Insectarium de Montréal
Entomological information service
4581 Sherbrooke Street East
Montréal, Québec H1X 2B2
Please note that there are no entomologists on site, and that your specimens (and containers) will not be returned to you.