Wrinkled grasshopper (Hippiscus ocelote)
This robust grasshopper seems dull at first, but notice the bright blue inside the hindleg and the bright yellow hindwings
This robust grasshopper seems dull at first, but notice the bright blue inside the hindleg and the bright yellow hindwings
Camel crickets are large, abundant insects common to forests across the US. But they are rarely noticed, partly because they’re nocturnal. Here are two camel crickets that left their underground daylight hiding place to feed on a mushroom at night.
The Azure Bluet is often seen flying near water sources that are slow-moving if they have a current at all. Ponds, marshes, bogs, and lakes are all great habitats for this type of damselfly that feeds on small flying insects. The striking blue color is seen on both males and females. A single blue band…
Death comes for us all. When death came for this longhorn beetle, other insects were grateful for theresource. A stilt-legged fly (Rainieria antennaepes) approaches, then retreats.Severalscuttle flies(Phoridae) are already feeding on the carcass. Many insects specialize on dead arthropods. But these flies are just grabbing the opportunity.
Camel crickets, despite their name, are related to katydids rather than crickets. But unlike their cousins that sing to attract mates, camel crickets are largely silent. Instead they likely use smells and vibrations to communicate. Although, much of this is speculation, since the behavior of most species remains a mystery!
Ranch Manager Harold Out in the Field
Despite resembling a bumble bee, this is a actually huge fly that preys on other insects. They have strong venom for downing prey or inflicting a painful bite if handled. Notice this specimen turning its head to track potential prey flying by. Many flies mimic bees, and this species is among the largest in the…