Simplicity by Chipka
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Description
Rain has become a common occurrence in Chicago; as a result of this, the air swelters with humidity, and water-dependent life forms have been thrown into something of a reproductive frenzy. Snails (so invisible a population in the city) emerge in great numbers, revealing themselves to many for the very first time. Slugs, always a presence, have grown fat and far more colorful than I’ve ever seen them. Woodlice, as well, take advantage of the unprecedented moisture that we are experiencing.
I suspect that within a month, the woodlouse population will boast quite a number of healthy, gargantuan isopods.
This young woodlouse is a resident of a particular truck yard on Chicago’s far south side. I suspect that if it weren’t for woodlice, there’d be no reason to even consider visiting this part of the city. Indeed, woodlice are not so significant a draw: you can see them anywhere. Since I live on Chicago’s far south side, however, it’s good to know that there are woodlice here. They are a calming presence, a bit of dignity in a less-than-dignified environment. Ah, but woodlice are like that: nothing if not dignified.
I found this specimen, quietly nudging around scant undergrowth in the truck yard that has become a large portion of my life. I didn’t check to see if it’s a male or a female, but ultimately, it doesn’t matter. I was fascinated by its calm demeanor, the manner in which nothing seemed to annoy it. I suspect there’s something to be learned from that, but ah…woodlice are supreme manifestations of the natural world, and there is always something to be learned from Nature.
I'd intended to post this little beauty a lot earlier, but other posts vied (rather successfully) for my attention. I've decided to post this now, quite simply because I like the picture, I like the focus of its subject matter, and as my affection for such creatures is well known, it's only fitting that I return to the topic with an image that surprised me as I first made it. I have no idea where this particular woodlouse might be now, but I'm happy that it cooperated so graciously, and allowed this particular capture.
As always, thank you for viewing, reading, and commenting, and I hope you're all having a great weekend.
Comments (18)
MrsRatbag
Sweet shot, Chip; what a cooperative subject!
KatesFriend
There is an episode of 'The X Files' where it is postulated that such small seemingly unimportant creatures are actually alien probes sent to Earth to collect data on the environment and this planet's inhabitants. The story suggested cockroaches as these emissaries. But, you never know, woodlice do not have the same infamy as roaches. Less likely to incur our destructive wrath. Maybe this little fellow was studying you as you were admiring it.
danapommet
Very well caught Chip. Slugs and woodlice - you bring a new dimension to RR. More great narrative. Dana
kgb224
Outstanding capture my friend.
NightGallery
Very nice shot. Minimal as well composed
helanker
AW! Chip, that is a brillliant shot. I love it.
whaleman
Ha ha, don't you wish you could walk up a wall in Chicago like he can? It would be a great asset.
beachzz
Woodlouse---and you make him SO important---amazing!!
durleybeachbum
EXCELLENT pic! A very fine shiny specimen who contrasts spendidly with the stone.
Meisiekind
Oh Chip - this is a perfectly composed shot of your favourite subject! You are right, the focus is spot on and the pose of the little critter is just right! Excellent shot overall and I do like it a lot!
minos_6
What strikes me the most about this picture is the reflective qualities of the exoskeleton. I found myself looking to see if I could make out a tiny reflection of the photographer. Alas, not today! This is a superbly composed shot, well done!
flavia49
This guy looks coming straight from the paleozoic!! great capture!
jmb007
bonne photo!
auntietk
Wonderful image! The composition is perfect, and your zen woodlouse friend has such a fabulous, shiny texture against the rough wall. Nice!!
sandra46
anther great piece of artwork! for mysterious reasons that animal is called St. Antony's piglet here! but it also reminds me of the prehistoric trylobites!
romanceworks
Behold the woodlouse, as only you could present. CC
Bothellite
We call them "Pill Bugs" or "Sow Bugs" and we used to love to roll em up. There was an Uncle Remus story about a bear rolled up - reminded me of a big ol giant (one of those) bugs. This is an excellent macro. Worth framing!
praep
Simple and effective design of mother nature - they are here long time before the humans are and will be long time after the humans have gone.