Bug macros! ( bug-o-phobes steer clear :D )

[FlyingSquirrel]

I've really enjoyed editing and posting some of my macro shots lately, so I'll just keep it going. Not much to say here that I haven't covered in my previous couple threads. C&C appreciated.

1 Robber Fly, No ID



2 No ID larvae



3 Garden Spider (probably Araneus sp. most likely diadematus)



4 Virginian Tiger Moth Caterpillar (Spilosoma virginica) aka Yellow Woolly Bear

[ClaudioG]

Great images Matt!!! Fantastic, the Robber Fly is my favourite.. Would u mind me asking what your setup and equipment was?
Again..great work.

[deetheturk]

Hi Matt,I will second what Claudio said,well done!

Cheers David

[Wavelength]

Wonderful images

[terrib]

Matt, these are amazingly sharp. You did a really good job with nice clean backgrounds and beautiful color.

[Geoff F]

Had a look at some Robber Fly identification keys, Matt. But they are for UK species.

Trouble is, that is a useless photo!

First question relates to the wing tip veins which aren't visible.

However, just guessing from there on; do you get Machimus species over there?

It does seem rather similar to the UK Machimus atricapillus.

The larvae does appear somewhat similar to our Ladybirds (Ladybugs) but could be quite a lot else as well. Larvae identification is something of a specialist subject.

All good photos though.

[FlyingSquirrel]

Thank you all for your nice comments, I am glad you enjoyed the photos. For information regarding my gear / setup / techniques, please see the following two threads:

A few wildflower macros

Two more Wildflowers

Geoff, your knowledge of insects is far beyond mine. I know very little about the different species; all I know is I think they make great subjects! However, your comment is extremely helpful, partially in the sense that it made me realize I should be taking many photos from different angles of any nature subject, to help in ID'ing (not all photos need to be artistic, in other words). Thanks!

[Geoff F]

Yes, Matt, after covering all the required identification angles, or when there is more than one insect of the same species, I then start thinking artistically. But for me, getting those correct angles are the most important.

After a while, you get to recognise the general families and know which are the 'important bits'.