Got confused by spider like body with insect head - simple answer though

Geoff F · #1 (**permalink**) 25-05-2009, 11:36 AM

When I first saw this I thought Wow! What has a brown/white spider like body but a black insect like head; it must be something really special.

So I enthusiastically started trying to find a good photo angle and carefully moved the tripod to avoid startling this rare specimen. Then after a few shots 'the penny dropped' and I realised what it was.

First time that I have seen this very dark form though.

Venger · #2 (**permalink**) 25-05-2009, 11:55 AM

"Do you mind I'm eating my lunch!"

It's its a male Misumena vatia (most likely) - thats why the colour is different.

Meta menardi · #3 (**permalink**) 27-05-2009, 04:50 PM

Trouthead Mask Replica.

I know, I'm old.

Geoff F · #4 (**permalink**) 27-05-2009, 06:08 PM

When it had moved to this more 'traditional' shot everything became clear.

The trouble, I find, with macro photography is that I am trying to split my brain into two with one half worrying about camera settings and how to get closer without spooking the subject while also attempting to run an ID check through my 'portable memory computer section'.

Which, for a few minutes, was running in wild circles and starting to overheat. Anyhow got there eventually, and although I have seen many colour variations of this species previously this was the first time for this classic dark form.

Not sure about the prey; looks a bit like an Ichneumon.