Dragon Fly

[perose]

This morning we found a body of a very large dragon fly, completely undamaged, wings outstretched and beautiful. We would like to keep it to show our Granddaughter in 2 or 3 weeks time, can anyone tell us how to preserve it so that it does not dry out and crumble away?

[RATTER15]

Have look at this site. http://www.hometrainingtools.com/articles/maki ng-an-insect-collection-project.html

Hope it helps

[skylight]

Hi perose, You could possibly lay it out on a piece of card and put it in the freezer if you only want to keep it a short time. cheers skylight

[Clanad]

Insects of this type can be stored for long periods of time if they are pinned and stabilized. This isn't as difficult as it might sound. This has been used in many museums and, although the insect is brittle and can shatter, they last almost ideffinitely. Use only insect display pins if you can find them at a hobby store. They are quite a bit longer than ordinary straight pins.However, the preferred method is to soak them acetone for 8-12 hours, (some collectors leave them in for as long as 48 hours). Colors will be preserved reasonably well, though paler than in life, and the eyes will turn white. The specimens go brittle after treatment, so be sure they are set in the position you want them in prior to immersion. Acetone is readily available at many DIY stores, since it's often used for cleaning various items. Keep in mind that it is flammable, so use it in a well ventilated area. if you don't intend to keep them for longer periods of time, simply straighten the wings, as you indicate they already are, place a small drop of quick drying household glue on a piece of carboard and stick the insect to it. It will display well for your Granddaughter... Good luck!

[perose]

Many thanks for your replys.