Laboratory studies of large Diptera, viz. Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) and Musca domestica (L.), necessitated the development of an aspirator that would be more efficient than the conventional one and which prevents associated debris from entering the operator's lungs. A suitable device was made by attaching a portable, lightweight vacuum cleaner to the mouth piece of the aspirator (Fig. 1). The size of the collecting jar can be varied to suit the size of the sample. This apparatus, which is easy to use (Fig. 2), and does not damage the insects being collected, saves considerable time. The aspirator may be useful for collecting from an assortment of dirty habitats (Wiens and Burgess 1972) as well as other scaly-winged insects. It may be adapted for use in the field by connecting it to a portable generator.