Took a bit to figure out what to call myself here on iNaturalist. I've settled on either practicing naturalist or 'amateur entomologist.' The Amateur Entomologists' Society writes, "An entomologist is someone who takes an interest in insects, and studies them. They may be any age, and do not need to be professionals." After two years as a member, the focus evolved to ecology; the relations of organisms to one another and to their physical surroundings. After three years, the intent is to clarify what is a rare visitor, what is seasonal, and what is common in the low desert of Arizona requiring several images of a species taken over a year. Also started learning macro photography in 2023 with a new camera, Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark3.

Have a tendency to dig deep into the behaviors and scientific aspects of one subject at a time learning along the way. Usual routine is photograph a subject, obtain ID, learn taxonomy, find out who the prey and predators are, and then learn about the host plant(s). A well-rounded amateur naturalist will hopefully emerge from following this passion.

Took a free online Entomologist class through Coursera called Bugs 101 by the University of Alberta. Highly recommend this class for beginner amateur entomologists. Enjoying this subject matter deviation from the human animal degree obtained, Master's of Science in Counseling.