A few more insects, Moseley Bog, and white Bluebells, Birmingham

[James G]

Conditions yesterday still very breezy, but a couple of interesting captures....

#1 Green Lacewing, Chrysoperla carnea



#2



#3 Holly Blue, Celestrina argiolus, male



#4



#5




#6 White Bluebells...... (for Izzie )




There were quite a few of these white bluebells and I was a bit surprised to see them. I understand that they are the result of cross breeding (accidental), between our native English variety and an introduced Spanish variety.

Moseley Bog is a managed nature reserve and an SSI (site of Special Scientific Interest), with a number of rare/endangered flower species. While Bluebells are not exactly endangered, the hybrids are causing some concern since they are becoming much more prevalent around the country!

[JohnRostron]

I find that in the Lacewing pics, #1 and #2, the detail is lost because of the background. In contrast, the pics of the Holly Blue, #3 and #4, are absolutely gorgeous!

John

[Rainforest]

Fabulous detail, and thanks for the identification information. They are are wonderful - 2,3 and 4 are my favorites.

[Geoff F]

I find that in the Lacewing pics, #1 and #2, the detail is lost because of the background. In contrast, the pics of the Holly Blue, #3 and #4, are absolutely gorgeous!

John

That is one of the dilemmas of entomology photography. To shoot an insect under optimal background conditions, which makes identification easier; or go more artistic and capture a nice botanical scene plus an insect?

I use both methods.

#1 is a bit high in yellow saturation so I prefer the second version.

[James G]

This is the first Lacewing I've seen this season. It did seem to be enjoying the dandelion pollen. Problem is that it might also be the only one I see this season., so I took the shot available.

Geoff stated the dilemma perfectly, in processing I chose to show more of the flower for a more balanced/'artistic' image.
But I do take John's point, and a much tighter crop concentrating just on the insect does generate an image , which I think may be better for John's purposes.

The Hollly Blue made life pretty easy for me..

[Shadowman]

Nice series.

[JohnRostron]

Yes, this crop does allow me to concentrate on the real subject - the Lacewing.

John

[IzzieK]

The first two almost got lost in the flower. I kinda like their delicate wings...and the colour. I like green. This must be a smallist insect as you said "dandelion"? Good shot if not for the glaring yellow. The edit is much better. And thank you for remembering my passion for blue bells even though this are white ones. I nearly bought one yesterday at the supermarket but it turned out to be fake. Oh well...