Sweep nets - where, what, how, when, why...

[AshLee]

Hello,

I am avoiding the LNHS entomology meets because they require possession of a sweep net. Basically, I haven't got a clue....

Where do I go to get one? What do I look for? How much do I pay? If I buy one, will it come in handy for uses other than at meets? By this I'm concerned that using it down my local park might get me some strange looks, or worse. How do I use it (or does it come with instructions)? And anything else I should know.



I thought I was doing well with my waterproof notebook and hand lenses. But now they want MORE!

Thanks in advance,

Ash

[artdemole]

You can make your own with fine netting.A stout stick and some wire to form hoop.Just skim above the plants or grass.The insect will soon be in the net.

[AshLee]

Never thougth of that, artdemole. How big should the hoop be, do you know? Fine netting from a garden centre maybe (not really come across that)? What mess size?

Sorry for all the dumb questions.

Thanks for the reply,

Ash

[artdemole]

About 40cm wide and maybe same length or slightly longer.the Netting Could be curtain netting or from a voil panel.

[AshLee]

Sweep nets, hee, hee. Love that idea. Thanks for the spec.

Ash

[The Woodman]

As a start Ashlee have a look at this link on the Alana Ecology website

Alana Ecology Bungee Sweep Net

[AshLee]

Hi Woodman,

Thanks for the reply. The fact that I can clip it discretely about my person is appealing when having to pass through central London at the weekend.

So you don't need a stick then? You just hold it at arms length and skim. Interesting.

Looks nice, and a lot of fun, actually.

Thank you,

Ash

[artdemole]

After looking at the site you can see it is easy to make the net.Similar was used as a youngster for fishing for newts and sticklebacks as well as butterflies.Homemade can be done.

[The Woodman]

You could buy the net only

Alana Ecology Sweep Net Bag - Large

and make your own frame or as I do - a folding landing net head and a cheaper landing net handle from a fishing tackle supplier.

I used to get my nets from Marris House nets but they've been taken over by

B&S Entomological Services- the Net suppliers

[artdemole]

After having been onto the other site, you can see what I meant about the NETTING.