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April 30, 2007
Takeoff!
I photographed this ladybeetle (Coleomegilla maculata)yesterday at Metzger Marsh in Ohio, not far from Toledo. There were thousands of them that must have taken refuge for the winter beneath large piles of rocks that line the road on the way into the marsh. This particular species is one of those that do congregate in large numbers to hibernate for the winter.
One thing about this image that strikes me is how complex beetles are. Look at those hind wings that have to fold just so beneath the elytra - and the elytra have to be held in a way as to not interfere with the flight of the beetle. Pretty remarkable, and its been working for millions of years.
Posted by mfobrien at 09:27 AM | Comments (0)
April 24, 2007
Sounding Off on Insects
I was just alerted to a new book coming out THIS month. The Songs of Insects by Lang Elliott and Wil Hershberger. From what I have seen of this book thus far is very exciting. I'll review it after I have a copy in hand. Another nice item is their Singing Insect CD that will put you in the midst of an August evening with singing orthopterans.
It's nice to see such works coming out by people that understand how to put a guide together for the novices and naturalists out there. We'll all be better for it.
Posted by mfobrien at 03:28 PM | Comments (0)