Owlfly by Leeco

Photography • Creatures • posted on May 13, 2007

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Description

Nikon 7900 image. Well it is not an "Owl", nor is it a "Fly". When I first spotted it, I was sure it was a large "Cranefly" because of the way it fluttered as it flew. Upon getting a closer look I decided it was a "Dragonfly" because of the body shape. Then I got close enough to get a better view and decided it was a "Damselfly" because it's wings were not held horizontal when it landed, nor did it's eyes meet at the top of the head. Finally I got close enough to get a shot and suddenly I noticed the very long antennae and I was at a loss as to what the heck it was. Turns out it belongs to a small family called "Nerve wing insects". I spent a fair amount of time at "Whatsthatbug.com" before I finally found it under the "Antlion" images, lol. Owlflies are in the Order Neuroptera, family Ascalaphidae. Owlflies resemble a cross between a dragonfly and an adult antlion. They have slender bodies with clear wings and are easily recognized by their long clubbed antenna. Adult owlflies are aerial predators feeding on other insects. When disturbed, an owlfly will release a strong, musk-like, chemical to deter an enemy. Adults are most active at sunset and dawn and can often be collected around lights. During the day, adults rest on stems and twigs with the body, legs, and antennae pressed to the stem. The abdomen is held up, projecting into the air, to look like a broken twig. Most owlflies average about 2 inches in length. Adult Ululodes have large divided eyes which is where the common name Owlfly came from. Owlflies can be found in most areas of North America. Owlflies lay eggs in groups, usually at the tips of twigs and limbs. Less than

Comments (9)

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Richardphotos

12:31AM | Sun, 13 May 2007

awesome macro and I never seem one in person nor foto

MrsLubner

12:35AM | Sun, 13 May 2007

Again, I've learned something new. This is very interesting and the photo is so clear, focused and with great lighting and pov so that I know exactly what this must look like.

BibbyBear

3:31AM | Sun, 13 May 2007

A superb macro shot and the description was so easy to understand with such a fantastic photo to view at the same time. Excellent POV and lighting. Great find. xx

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