backyard creatures #2......

[gary yankech]

I have had very little luck photographing (and seeing) birds this summer...insects though, I've been having lots of fun!

A few insects from the June and July.


Bronze Alder Moth by Gary Yankech, on Flickr


Orange-Headed Epicallima Moth by Gary Yankech, on Flickr


Glorious Habrosyne Moth by Gary Yankech, on Flickr


Carrion beetle, Nicrophorus orbicollis by Gary Yankech, on Flickr
Notice the mites, they form a symbiotic relationship with the beetle. The mites hitch a ride on the beetle. When the beetle finds its own food, the beetle also provides a food source for the mites; the mites climb off and eat the larvae of flies, which are the beetle's main competition at carrion sites.


bold jumping  spider eating its prey by Gary Yankech, on Flickr

and a few other beetles I found close to home...


Willow Calligrapha beetle, species by Gary Yankech, on Flickr


Common Red Solider Beetle by Gary Yankech, on Flickr


Dogbane Leaf Beetle by Gary Yankech, on Flickr

I hope I'll see more birds this fall, when the bugs are gone!

Happy birding!

[lovemypt]

nice series...love the colours on the last beetle

[Bluffs Birder]

Wonderful collection of bugs again Gary.  Thanks for sharing.

Walter