Yesterday’s weevil may not have been cute and attractive but I think we can describe today’s subjects that way.
Dogbane Leaf Beetles- Chrysochus auratus are promiscuous beetles mating constantly during their lifespan. I saw several paired up like this, although in this case not quite hooked up, on the small stretch of plants where I visit them annually.
Their elytra are metallic, shiny, colorful, and often reflect their surroundings. Here reflecting the photographer as well.
Dewy surface tension at work.
Amazing that this little beetle is so shiny that you can see your reflection in it.
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It is pretty cool and there are other beetles with hard elytras that most likely will give reflections as well.
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They’re spectacular! It’s amazing how pretty some tiny creatures can be – presumably they gain some benefit. (I guess that birds would be dubious about eating something shiny and metallic.)
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Yes, probably something like this would go down the gullet pretty hard. They are among the loveliest of beetles…lovely, of course, being a human opinion and meaning nothing to Nature.
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Nice self-portrait (not the beetle, the reflection).
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It wasn’t in my plan as I composed but happenstance is a positive experience too.
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That’s a great self-portrait at the end. Maybe you should enlarge the relevant part and use it as your avatar.
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I’ve considered it but in a frog’s eye since that’s a bit more personal.
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Great Images Steve! Enjoyed seeing them!
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Thanks, Reed.
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These are beautiful creatures.
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Appreciated the square format as well.
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Thanks, Khürt! Square seems a better aspect ratio for insects unless there is something else compelling in the frame. They are gorgeous.
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They are such a pretty beetle – terrific shots, Steve, esp. that last, dewy one.
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Thanks, Eliza. The dew drop image is my favorite of the shoot.
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Spectacular photography as always and great education too. I’ve been inundated with beetles mating (and devouring) roses, sunflowers, burgundy trees and shrubs this year. Your photos almost make it seem worth it.
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Thanks! These don’t cause much harm as they only eat dogbane, a relative of milkweed, and even at that don’t totally devour the plant as some other insects do. I’d be thrilled to have them share our yard.
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The iridescence of this beetle is incredibly beautiful, Steve. Quite in a contrast to yesterday’s beetle!
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I am sure yesterday’s weevil has certain charms seen by other weevils. This one is attractive in almost anyone’s eyes.
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Marvelous beetles, I love the splendid colors !
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Aren’t they fantastic, Rudi?
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All wonderful photos, I particularly like the last one!
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Thanks, Belinda!
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These are photos to take my time over! I love the pretty colours and the polish, the self-portrait reflection, and the dew bubbles clinging to a beetle’s feet. Exquisite!!!
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It was a very enjoyable time with these beetles, Liz. I kept finding others and made many images. I am glad you enjoyed them. Thanks!
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What gets me is that even their feet and legs iridesce. It’s an amazing sight — and attractive as can be.
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It’s all chitin, a very hard substance, so I would guess the coloration is complete on all the surfaces. They may not be sacred scarabs but I think they are quite special…and beautiful. Even if I don’t capture something different from previous shots, it is still a delight to see and photograph them again each year.
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And now I have to say that I am grateful for all the years you put into perfecting your technique, because it brings this amazing little being, in all its splendor, to so many appreciative people. Pure happiness.
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That is a very kind thing to say and I appreciate that, Lynn. I have worked at this thing. 🙂
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Yes, and it shows, the work and the care. 🙂
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