Still recovering from a bit of minor surgery, but thought I would test the comfort waters (so to speak) and see how much bending I can endure (turns out, not too much really). For this first, post-surgery, trip out, we chose a local little wetland that sits rather conveniently behind a car dealership and just across the street from a coffee shop.
On the way there, I noticed a rather large red ant hill and decided to investigate. Lots of activity around the perimeter with large numbers of patrols busy rushing back and forth on various errands. However, I did come across this poor lone worker who was frantically searching for just the right place to set down his rock. I decided that this chap had a bit of creative streak in him as he was having a devil of a time finding an appropriate placement that would make a statement.
Ostensibly, the basic reason for our visit to the wetlands was the promise of large numbers of dragonflies who practically threw themselves at the lens (and based upon Art's incredible previous photos, this claim was not that far off). However, cool temps and a slight breeze kept the numbers at bay. Luckily, there was no lack of residents to photograph...as with this fine example of a Henry's Marsh Moth caterpillar (Simyra insularis).
While not overwhelmed with dragonflies, we were treated to this rather cooperative representative of a female meadowhawk, who posed while both of us took several shots.
A very nice shot of our friendly Marsh Moth caterpillar with all of the classic yearbook elements...soft background focus, sun highlites, nice smile...
Just across the street from the wetland area, I came across this little fellow. I think that this is a Greenhouse Stone Cricket (Diestrammena asynamora) based upon the coloration and absolutely incredible markings on the legs and back.
I noticed that the pine trees in the area had quite a few of these orange and black pupa clinging to the needles. Based on the color, and the very unusual white spurs along the front, I am guessing that this is the pupa of the Asian Multicolored Lady Beetle (Harmonia axyridis).
One of my favorite archnids, as you might know from reading previous posts, are jumping spiders. This excellent example of a male Zebra Jumping Spider (Salticus scenicus) made a brief, but greatly appreciated, appearance while we were busy photographing our dragonfly friend.
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