"If all mankind were to disappear, the world would regenerate back to the rich state of equilibrium that existed ten thousand years ago. If insects were to vanish, the environment would collapse into chaos."
― E. O. Wilson
― E. O. Wilson
An indiscriminate bug hunt is just that ― I set out to a natural area with no particular target species in mind and try to find and photograph as many interesting critters as possible. The Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor is a great place for insect diversity and this type of endeavor. The water, sand, soil, plants and trees attract a wide variety of insects. With fantastic weather and light, it seemed certain to be an enjoyable day exploring the nooks and crannies of the creek corridor. It's kind of like a scavenger hunt, but only free-form.
Do you recognize this little beastie? It's a Buffalo Treehopper nymph! Hoppers are primarily a mid to late summer thing, but it's interesting to catch them at this stage of their metamorphosis. The mindful observer checks the blade near the petiole to find a resting Red-banded Leafhopper.
Odonata-wise, there was a great variety of dragonflies and damselflies. I don't typically spend a lot of time on them, but this Eastern Pondhawk was perfectly perched at rest for a photograph.
Ebony Jewelwings were abundant. They can be a little tricky to sneak up on, and don't stick around if gratuitously disturbed. Slow, fluid motions are tolerated. They do seem to favor certain sun-facing perches, so if one does fly it's best to remain in position to take another photograph ― they'll often return to the same leaf.
More iridescent blue than green on this next one ...
And a female Ebony Jewelwing ― the white-tipped wings ...
I found a patch of Dogbane and found just a single Dogbane Leaf Beetle ...
If you're going to photograph Spiderwort, try to make the ordinary extraordinary.
And then ...
Peacock Flies! I haven't seen these little marvels in decent numbers in a while. I think I found just a single individual last year and the year prior. They prefer to forage and strut on decayed wood, typically dry but near water's edge. I first discovered these adorable little flies several years ago.
Above: That's the head of a bolt for size comparison ― Peacock Flies are super tiny and easily missed. They're a very ornate insect for their small size. It's thought that the iridescent blue colors on the wings attract potential mates.
And this one was patrolling my new boonie hat ...
And this one was patrolling my new boonie hat ...
A very successful outing, I think. Photography of any kind is a very mindful process. While searching and engaging an insect there's really nothing else on my mind ― total focus and yet a type of relaxation. Naturally, the birder in me is always listening. Though not particularly after birds today, I did hear Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-pewee, Baltimore Oriole, House Wren, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, Tufted Titmouse, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Northern Cardinals, American Robin, Wood Thrush, Blue Jay, Red-eyed Vireo, Hairy Woodpecker, American Goldfinch, Cedar Waxwing, and even caught a glimpse of a Barred Owl zooming down part of the corridor.
More bug hunts on the way!
All images © 2022 Mike McDowell