Many groups of insects are in decline around the world, but there is a lack of detailed information about insect trends using standardized methods of trapping and measurement across large regions. As a consequence, there has been a lot of debate about the extent and severity of insect declines at a global scale.

We are a group of 250+ researchers across Canada and the United States interested in patterns of insect abundance (biomass), particularly insect declines. Where are declines occurring and what are the reasons for variation in their severity? Most previous studies have focused on pollinators such as bees and butterflies, but are other types of insects also declining?

These are the sort of questions we hope to address with a large-scale (continent wide) survey of insect biomass using the same type of trap (Malaise traps).  Malaise traps intercept flying insects which crawl upwards and into a collection bottle (at the apex of the 'tent' in the pictures below). 

Our Townes-style Malaise trap is made by BugDorm (Bugdorm.com. left photo) and sold by Forestry Suppliers in North America (right photo).  We are using the model I (BT1001)  or model II (BT1011) traps.  Model I is no longer being made.