Even Insects do it!

[Geoff F]

Warning - Contains graphic representation of Insect Porn!

Following on from my previous photo of Empis tessellata which made it look rather cuddly A Few More Insects

Here is the sex and violence side of the same species!



The male is hanging from a leaf while holding on to the female which is eating a fly that she has just killed. The prey looks like a male dung fly. Empis will feed on both flowers and other insects.

And a couple of sexy little weevils.



And a quieter scene, with an alternative design ladybird. A 10 spot (Adalia 10-punctata). Yes, I know it has 12 spots but ladybirds are like that; anything to be a little different!



Struggled to get the correct angle with this one which was in a difficult position amongst leaves; and I needed to see its 'face' for an identification. There was another perfect shot but the ladybird decided to move as I pressed the shutter so the image is a fraction blurred, although still just right for the identification.

[flashback]

Really great details. In #1 it might appear the female is more interested in feeding than...well you what I mean.
#2 is just adorable, like tiny snuffleupagus (snuffleupagi?)
And #3, different is good. Looks a bit battleworn or maybe sun faded.

[Shadowman]

Nice set and lead-in.

[IzzieK]

All good shots, Geoff........I like them all.

[deetheturk]

Great shots Geoff,#1 is super well done

David

[Geoff F]

Thanks. 10 spots are quite variable, Jack. They come in a range of colour variations and sometimes a mixture of tints like this one. And of course, harsh reflections from sun or flash are always problematic.

[snikhil208]

#1 She is multitasking.....feeding & enjoying sex. wow........

[John 2]

Front tot back sharpness Geoff. Good work.

[bnnrcn]

Very nice shots Geoff. Leaves with silvery hair go very well with the insects' colour and add to te composition