Longlegged fly (Condylostylus) hunting on leaftops
These attractive metallic flies are commonly seen on leaftops, hunting for smaller insects. They are lively creatures and some species have elaborate mating dances.
These attractive metallic flies are commonly seen on leaftops, hunting for smaller insects. They are lively creatures and some species have elaborate mating dances.
A civilization under a stone. These ants are busy caring for their eggs and larvae. The lives of these creatures is complex, with various communications, duties, and associations with other life forms such as bacteria, fungus, mites, beetles, etc., that live amongst them. Books could be written about just this scene. Take a moment to…
Widespread hatred is common forthe10 or so introduced cockroaches that now invade our homes. But the US is home to more than 70 species of native cockroach that do not act as pests. These natives might resemble pest species, but they live their lives in the wilderness. This specimen is a wood cockroach (Parcoblatta). Male…
This robust grasshopper seems dull at first, but notice the bright blue inside the hindleg and the bright yellow hindwings Female tiny parasitic wasp (Eupelmidae) with an interesting jumping mechanism crawling over tree bark-likely Anastatus hunting for stink bug eggs to lay its own eggs into Flies attracted to dead longhorn beetle-stilt-legged fly (Rainieria antennaepes)…
Timber Rattlesnake found on a hike.
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! American Bird Grasshopper Banded Pennant…
This large hornet is native to Europe and can be common, especially in areas of human development. They are predators of other arthropods, which they bring back to their nest in a cavity such as a tree hole. Despite being large and scary, they are not aggressive. In the TN Woods, You Can Find All…