Insects and spiders

There are more species of insect in the world than any other group, representing about 80 percent of the world’s species . Their distant relatives, the spiders, are also a diverse and fascinating group. These creepy crawlies are often feared and disliked by humans, but discover how many of them have important roles to play in medical and forensic science, or by preying on insect pests.

Identify your bug

Identify the insects, spiders and other creepy crawlies in your home and garden with the help of our database of images.
Bug forum

Ask questions and share identification tips about all types of British bugs, from bees to beetles and wasps to woodlice.
Common insects

Plenty of bugs can be found without leaving the home or garden. Find out how, when and where to spot some of the most common ones.
Collecting and conserving

Find out everything you need to know to become an amateur bug collector, including what equipment to buy and which colours attract flies.
Insects in science

Insects have many uses. Find out how they can serve as a high protein snack and also help police in murder enquiries.
Identification guides and keys

Browse species catalogues and follow step-by-step keys to help you identify some of the many types of wildlife in the UK and also some more exotic species.