Capture without crushing
Place a clear container over the insect and slide stiff paper underneath, or press it lightly onto clear tape. Seal the container. Avoid handling it with bare fingers.
Make two photographs
Take a close, sharply focused view from directly above beside a millimetre scale, then a wider image showing the exact seam, joint or room location.
Label the context
Record the date, room, surface and whether the insect crawled, jumped or flew. Movement is often highly discriminating.
Get a competent opinion
A pest professional, local entomology service where available, or a clear expert identification is stronger than crowd confidence from a blurred image. Do not begin broad pesticide use on an uncertain ID.
Limits and sources
This page supports triage, not diagnosis. Health wording follows current NHS guidance. Identification logic uses visible anatomy, movement and harbourage evidence; an intact specimen reviewed by a competent expert remains stronger.