What is one of the first steps in forensic insect evidence collection?

Collecting environmental data is a crucial first step in forensic insect evidence collection because it provides essential context regarding the conditions surrounding the crime scene. Environmental data includes temperature, humidity, the presence of carcasses or organic material, and the specific location of the scene. This information is vital for estimating the time of death and understanding the insect activity that may influence the decomposition process.

When investigating a death, environmental factors directly affect the life cycles of insects, which can vary significantly based on climate conditions. By gathering this data first, forensic entomologists can more accurately interpret the insect evidence that is later collected and assess the timeline of events leading up to the death. This step lays the foundation for subsequent actions, such as identifying species and preserving insect samples, ensuring that all findings are grounded in a precise understanding of the scene's environmental context.