Hi guys
Seeing as we're all reptile enthusiasts, we often overlook the smaller, beautiful animals we often encounter. It is amazing how much beauty we miss if something is generally considered disgusting or a pest, or even just if the animal is too small to notice the detail.
Here in Namibia, every year in certain areas tons of Phymateus baccatus make their way onto the roads, apparently in the race to mate. Strangely, we mostly encounter females on the road, whereas I would have expected the males to pursue the females, but anyway.
HEre are a few pics.
Full body shot, just look at those leopard spots on the legs and thorax, as well as the pink "skin" where the legs join the thorax.
Headshot, these close-ups always give inverts a mammal-like appearance
And last but not least, the amazing threat display, love the colour and pattern on their wings!
Thanx for looking.