Catching bugs! Handling bugs! Sweeping.

Lately, I have been really into the little bugs.

My camera isn't the best at this macrophotography, but I think it can still take some decent shots. As a point-and-shoot camera with autofocus (Nikon coolpix P530), I can hold an insect in one hand and take a picture with the other. It means that my fingers are in LOTS of shots -- hope this isn't too much of a distraction. I'm not really going for art in my observations -- there are so many others that excel in that. :)

I have been doing a lot of sweep netting or "sweeping" to catch insects. It's quite amazing how many insects there are just in some tall grass! I use a petri dish with my hand in the background for some scale. I think it's a fairly effective way to observe bugs.

Now, on some insects, I grab onto their legs. I'm not totally sure, but I don't think this hurts them. At least, they're sure able to walk and fly away after I photograph them -- I'm sure these insects go back to their friends with a crazy story. :)

Posted on 28 September, 2015 15:22 by sambiology sambiology

Observations

Photos / Sounds

What

Ragweed Weevil (Lixus scrobicollis)

Observer

sambiology

Date

September 26, 2015

Description

After my dragonfly program, I decided to explore a little bit behind this historic place. This is the homestead of Ralph Mann. http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Ralph+Mann+Homestead&cnty=tarrant

I spent some time "sweeping" with the insect net and caught some of these cool bugs too.

Photos / Sounds

Observer

sambiology

Date

September 26, 2015

Description

After my dragonfly program, I decided to explore a little bit behind this historic place. This is the homestead of Ralph Mann. http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Ralph+Mann+Homestead&cnty=tarrant

I spent some time "sweeping" with the insect net and caught some of these cool bugs too.

Photos / Sounds

Observer

sambiology

Date

September 26, 2015

Description

After my dragonfly program, I decided to explore a little bit behind this historic place. This is the homestead of Ralph Mann. http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Ralph+Mann+Homestead&cnty=tarrant

I spent some time "sweeping" with the insect net and caught some of these cool bugs too.

Photos / Sounds

What

Ornate Planthopper (Liburniella ornata)

Observer

sambiology

Date

September 26, 2015

Description

After my dragonfly program, I decided to explore a little bit behind this historic place. This is the homestead of Ralph Mann. http://www.stoppingpoints.com/texas/sights.cgi?marker=Ralph+Mann+Homestead&cnty=tarrant

I spent some time "sweeping" with the insect net and caught some of these cool bugs too.

Photos / Sounds

What

Inornate Pyrausta Moth (Pyrausta inornatalis)

Observer

sambiology

Date

September 27, 2015

Description

This pink moth was a really neat find! I'll study it later with the moth ID guide. :)

Photos / Sounds

What

Smaller Sand Cricket (Ellipes minuta)

Observer

sambiology

Date

September 27, 2015

Description

Swept with the insect net up in the garden... Found some interesting things! This little mole cricket was one. :)

Photos / Sounds

What

Euphorbia Bug (Chariesterus antennator)

Observer

sambiology

Date

September 27, 2015

Description

Swept with the insect net up in the garden... I've seen this bug before, I just need to recall it. :)

Photos / Sounds

Observer

sambiology

Date

September 27, 2015

Description

Not sure what this black and red beetle is either! Another insect caught by sweeping.

Comments

Keep on doing what you are doing and thanks for sharing everything you learn.... You are my hero.

Posted by connlindajo over 8 years ago

I, for one, really like to see your hands or fingers in the shots, firstly because they are great scale objects. And, with insects, as well as most other organisms, your hand provides a good background color which contrasts nicely with the subject matter.

Thanks for your excellent contributions, which I enjoy every day.

Susan aka invertzoo

Posted by susanhewitt over 8 years ago

Aw shucks -- thanks! :)

Be sure to let me know when I start spamming up your dashboard!!! I do my daily observations, but sometimes I get a bit carried away. :)

Posted by sambiology over 8 years ago

Sam, I enjoy your images VERY MUCH! For us city dwellers in the "will-fairly-soon-be-frozen" northeast, it is a great pleasure to see warm weather Texas wildlife all year long!

Posted by susanhewitt over 8 years ago

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