ABSTRACT
An ethno entomology study of insect is carried out among the indigenous people of Ondo State to examine the cultural and religious significance of insect in that society. 60 questionnaires were administered randomly among the inhabitants of Idanre Local Government Area. Oral interview was carried out in the area to interview traders, farmers and locals on their knowledge of insects and the ethno entomological information of the area. 58 respondents (98.33%) reported their familiarity with insects, while 2 respondent claimed they don’t know what insects are, Insects described by the respondents include Ant, army ant, bedbug, bee, butterfly, beetle, black ant, cockroach, housefly, grasshopper, cocoa cockroach, mosquito, dragon fly, locust, moth caterpillar, palm weevil, termites, tsetse fly and soldier ant. 71.67% of the respondents confirmed the significance of insects in religious worship, while 18.33% affirmed that insects are not used in traditional worship. While 10% had no idea on the significance of insect in traditional worship. The study also showed that insects have cultural significance in aspect of proverbs, art and music, myth and taboo, significance in dreams. More studies should be carried out to validate the claims about the ethno entomology fully understand indigenous use of insects which will help create a steady provision of the benefits provided by insects.
