What Kind of Bugs to Eat in the Wild?

Cicadas are an easy-to-find snack.

It may seem gross to some, but eating bugs can provide nutrients and protein. You can eat most bugs. They are lower in fat and higher in protein than most meats. If you find yourself lost in the wilderness with nothing but the buzz of cicadas around, you may find a tasty and healthy meal.

Cicadas

You can eat cicadas. The hardest part is finding them. They make a loud, buzzing sound that you can follow to locate them. They are usually in trees or bushes. They may quiet down when they hear you coming, but if you keep quiet for a moment, they will start their buzzing back up. Cicadas are around in the afternoon and early evening.

Field Crickets

Crickets are more easily found at night. Listen, as with the cicada, for their song. Crickets rub their legs together to attract mates, and if you sneak up on a loud patch of grass, you might catch a couple. Have a jar handy and catch as many crickets as you can during the night in grasses, bushes and flowering areas.

Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers are easy to find in a variety of species. Go to any grass patch or field and they are jumping out of your way. You may need a net to catch them as they can jump farther than you think. Look for grasshoppers during the day when the sun is out in warm weather.

Grubs

Grubs are full of nutrients. You can find them most times of the year in fallen, decaying logs or tree stumps. They are worm-like and feed off the dead trees. Grubs are found in forests and swamps.

Preparing Bugs

You can wash the bugs in a colander. If you have flying bugs or hopping bugs, put a screen over the colander while washing. Put the bugs in a freezer for about 15 minutes until they are dead. You now can cook with them or eat them as is.

References

• Manataca American Indian Council: Eating Bugs!