A poll of 500 primary school children has revealed that their knowledge of bugs and insects is limited. Although 41% said they enjoy the outdoors most days of the week, many aren't making the most of that time when it comes to engaging with nature. 

It turns out only 39% look for insects, even though 59% are interested in learning about them. Surprisingly, 38% couldn’t identify a ladybird, and 61% didn’t know a daddy long-legs. Even slugs confused half of the kids!

To tackle this, Forest Holidays and the conservation charity Buglife are launching "Ugly Bug Hunts" this Easter at 13 UK forest locations. These activities aim to teach kids how to find, identify, and appreciate insects that are vital to forest ecosystems.

"Bugs and insects are fascinating once you stop to really look," Gerry O'Brien, a Forest Ranger at the eco-conscious holiday company, says. “The research shows there’s a gap in knowledge and understanding – but also a real curiosity. Through our Ugly Bug Hunts, we want to take the ‘creepy’ out of crawlies and spark children’s interest in the secret life of the forest.

"By getting hands-on with nature, we hope to inspire them to get outside, discover the wildlife beneath their feet, and understand the biodiversity that keeps our forests healthy," he adds. 

Despite concerns about declining engagement with nature among children, the new research indicates youngsters are eager and curious about what they come across outdoors. Nearly four in 10 are curious when they find a creepy crawly outside, and 66% reported discovering fascinating new species they hadn't seen before.

It also showed encouraging signs of knowledge in other areas, such as how many legs an insect has and how many species there were, both were questions the majority of children answered correctly.

Moreover, an impressive 80% of kids understood that insects such as bees and butterflies are vital for pollinating to help grow our fruits and veggies, displaying key insights into the importance of bugs for maintaining biodiversity. Yet, an eye-opening 46% confessed their ignorance regarding 'bug hotels', underlining the pressing need to ramp up wildlife education.

Still the research showed young kids get excited over insects with many finding them "really cool" due to their vibrant colours (55%), positive impact on nature (50%), and small but mighty strength. A notable 40% of youngsters are also captivated their "special powers," such as web-spinning or bioluminescence.

When it comes to favourites, butterflies were voted number one, while wasps, daddy long legs, and cockroaches unsurprisingly came bottom of the list.

Paul Hetherington from Buglife said: “These tiny creatures are essential to life as we know it. From recycling nutrients to supporting food production and feeding other species, bugs hold our ecosystems together.

“We believe helping children experience this first-hand is key to building long-term awareness, empathy and respect for nature and through our work with Forest Holidays, we hope to spark that fascination early on."