This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
[the following is a modified repost from PhotoSynthesis, 2009]
Step 1. Locate a suitable patch of forest, field, or desert.
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Step 2. Wait for a warm, moonless summer night.
Step 3. Using a long extension cord, plug in a blacklight. Or even better, a mercury-vapor lamp.
Step 4. Sit back and watch your prey arrive.*
*disclaimer. This technique works generally for most entomologists, but if your needs are more specific, you will wish to employ more specialized methods. Forensic entomologists prefer roadkill, for example.