As many of you may know, I'm a huge fan of all things to do with nature and i try to photograph my findings, then use them to aid my growing knowledge, of the creatures we share this planet with.
On recent walks along canal paths and river sides, i've had me eyes focusing on the smaller things in nature, the ones we see in hedgerows, on leaves, flying through the air, etc. In particular i've been watching and ID'ing Ladybirds, my observations have reminded me of a fascinating thing about them, something they share with some insects, as well as the more obvious: butterflies and moths.
They under go a physical change, known as Complete Metamorphosis.
After mating, the ladybird will lay her clutch of eggs which will remain in their embryo-tic state for 3-4 days after with a small Larvae will emerge.
Here we have a Harlequin ladybird larvae,
an invasive species from the states, this type of larvae will prey on other species of ladybird larvae, putting our native species at risk, though this only happens when the usual food of the larvae is scarce.
Larvae like to feed on Aphids, here's one of our own and a more common ladybird larvae, 'The seven spot' seen feeding on it's favoured prey an aphid.
It will feed ravenously for up to two weeks passing through 4 molts as they assume a slightly different shape or colour before attaching itself to a leaf in preparation for it's final magical act.
The larvae pupates. The body contracts and a shell forms around it protecting it whilst the biological transformation begins inside.
After a few weeks, transformation is complete and the mature ladybird breaks out of the pupa shell.
Isn't nature just incredible?
And so diverse...
Wonderful Nature.
Common green shield bug
Red tailed bumble bee, covered in pink pollen.
The bizarre Figwort weevil..
A stunning large red damselfly.
Take a look out there, it's better then TV..
(big smiles)
