In the TN woods, you can find all kinds of surprises, like this Copperhead.
Even though we can’t go now, this beautiful environment will be waiting for us when we can. You, too. It’s never too early to start thinking about a gorgeous Tennessee vacation. Read more here.
The larval mite on this harvestman’s leg will continue engorging on host fluids until it falls off and pupates in the soil. It will then emerge as a purplish predatory mite with white stripes, then pupate again, and finally emerge as an adult that roams forest litter for prey
Salt is actually a rare resource in most of nature. Many insects, such as this flower fly, are acquire salt primarily from vertebrate bodies, such as urine, sweat, or tears. Here, this fly is lapping sweat from the arm of an entomologist who appreciates its beauty.
This is a mournfulthyrsi, a colorful, day-flying moth found in forests throughout the eastern US. As caterpillars, they feed only on the leaves ofgreenbrier (Smilax), a thorny vine that often irritates hikers. It’s fun to associate an attractive day-flying moth like this with the thorny plant that many curse.
Timber Rattlesnake found on a hike.
Wild pink lady slipper