Insect Study and the Trail to Eagle
Insect Study is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Insect Study Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 6 main requirements for Insect Study. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Tell how insects are different from all other animals.
- 2
Point out and name the main parts of an insect.
- 3
Describe the characteristics that distinguish the principal families and orders of insects.
- 4
Collect and mount 20 species of insects representing at least six different orders.
- 5
Describe the role insects play in the ecosystem.
- 6
Find out about three career opportunities in entomology.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Insect Study Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Insect Study, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Insect Study is usually earned anywhere. Pick whichever setting lets you work with your counselor most consistently.
3. Budget the time
Expect about 6 weeks for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 6 Insect Study requirements for you.
Insect Study Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Insect Study merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Insect Study is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Insect Study merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Insect Study in about 6 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Insect Study merit badge?
Insect Study is most often earned anywhere. Any registered merit badge counselor for Insect Study can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Insect Study merit badge have?
Insect Study has 6 main requirements, for 6 items in total.
