Benjamin Fabian
Pachyrhinus mustela (Herbst, 1797)
While ants are pretty difficult to photograph because of their restless nature they sometimes provide you with other potential photo models.
I found an ant carrying this perfectly intact weevil. Ants usually kill their prey by using their acid which attacks the respiratory system (trachea). This way prey items often are in very good shape.
I stole the beetle, arranged it a little bit and got a few stacks. Afterwards I placed it nearby a few ants. I'm pretty sure they quickly picked it up again.
stack of 15 images
Pachyrhinus mustela (Herbst, 1797)
While ants are pretty difficult to photograph because of their restless nature they sometimes provide you with other potential photo models.
I found an ant carrying this perfectly intact weevil. Ants usually kill their prey by using their acid which attacks the respiratory system (trachea). This way prey items often are in very good shape.
I stole the beetle, arranged it a little bit and got a few stacks. Afterwards I placed it nearby a few ants. I'm pretty sure they quickly picked it up again.
stack of 15 images