There are tiny bugs like pillbugs and sowbugs.You can find them in leaf litter, compost heaps, or under logs.They are enjoyable to watch, collect, and look after.If you are having trouble finding isopods, set a potato trap and keep any you catch in a container with lots of soil, bark, and stones.In the deep sea there are giant isopods.They are rare and you can see them at specialty aquariums and museums.
Step 1: The isopods can be caught with a plastic cup and spoon.
Cut a few holes in the lid of the cup.If you want to quickly scoop up any isopods you find, use a plastic spoon.A plastic container with a lid is an alternative.
Step 2: There are isopods in dark, sheltered and damp places.
pillbugs and sowbugs can be found under logs, rocks, compost heaps, and leaf litter.To disturb leaf litter and compost heaps, flip logs and rocks carefully.When disturbed, the isopods will scatter.It's possible to find isopods in your backyard, parks, forests, and around ponds.It is possible to spot isopods with a flashlight.
Step 3: See if the isopod rolls into a ball.
It's easy to tell sowbugs and pillbugs.When sowbugs are threatened, they just scatter.There are a lot of garden isopods.They are both great pets.
Step 4: The isopods can be put in the cup with the spoon.
Before you upturn any logs or rustle any leaves, take the lid off the cup.To begin searching, carefully move the logs, rocks, compost, or leaf litter.As the isopod moves, place the spoon in front of it and transfer it into the cup.If you can't see any more isopods, try a different spot.To get the isopod in, lightly tap the spoon on the side of the container.
Step 5: Scoop out the center of the potato with a spoon after cutting it in half.
If you want to slice the potato, place it on a chopping board.Potato are great for bait because they love to eat rotting vegetables.If you have trouble with the knife, get an adult to help you.You don't have to peel the potato.
Step 6: Under a log or in leaf litter, place the potato half skin-side down.
Put the potato traps in a dark place in the backyard.Place each potato half in a bowl and cover it with leaves.If you want the potato to not be exposed to the light, make sure that each half is covered with leaves.
Step 7: The isopods can be collected from the potato halves after a few days.
To uncover the trap, gently move the log or leaf litter.Lift the trap and use a spoon to scoop up isopods.If you want the isopods to fall in, gently tap the potato over the opening.Make sure the plastic container lid has holes in it.
Step 8: There are holes in the lid of the 1 US gal plastic container.
A small aquarium or a plastic storage container is ideal.To punch a few holes in the lid, use scissors or a drill.The container size is great for isopods.If you need help using scissors or a drill, ask an adult.
Step 9: Add some damp soil to the container.
You need to put on gardening gloves to get the soil from where you found the isopods.It should be spread evenly across the container.Remove dead isopods at the same time as you replace the soil.
Step 10: The soil should be Misted every day to keep it moist.
Cool water is needed to fill a spray bottle.To keep the soil moist, lightly spray it with water.The soil needs to be damp.The isopods get plenty of water from the moist soil and their food.
Step 11: The isopods can be covered with stones, bark, or crumpled paper.
Look around your backyard and see what the isopods would like.twigs and leaves work well.The container should look like a natural habitat.
Step 12: Transfer the isopods to a new place.
Carefully move the isopods from the collection container to their new habitat by using a plastic spoon.The isopods won't get hurt when they fall, so you can gently tip the plastic container onto the soil.When you are done, put the lid on the container.
Step 13: Feed the isopods a slice of potato a week.
Isopods like potatoes because they give them all the nutrition and hydration they need.The potato should be replaced with a fresh slice every week.They love carrots, lettuce, and oatmeal.