Amblypygi with prey
Patience and the capacity to endure pain. Essential for both the rainforest photographer and this amblypygid. Several things came together in this image. Originally when I started photographing it there was just the hint of colour under the wings. I waited 2hrs (amongst hordes of mosquitos) for the whip spider to work its way around and through the wings to get a photo of the colourful abdomen.
Sometimes it's the small things that pass unnoticed by most that really complement, accent and make the image special. As these 2hrs were unfolding, and I was beginning to question my sanity, the smell of blood (I know, I know, it's haemolymph) in the air and possibly some droplets on the bark attracted some nearby ants. Normally this amblypygid would be snug against the tree trunk feeding, however, to do so here, would be an invitation to the ants. Thus it makes fully use of its long, stilt legs, and is at full stretch, which also allowed for more effective use of backlighting. Small ant in foreground, is just one in a small line.
Amblypygid with katydid prey photographed for the #SaniProject2017. Follow us at @destinationecuador #Sanilodge #paulbertner.
Amblypygi with prey
Patience and the capacity to endure pain. Essential for both the rainforest photographer and this amblypygid. Several things came together in this image. Originally when I started photographing it there was just the hint of colour under the wings. I waited 2hrs (amongst hordes of mosquitos) for the whip spider to work its way around and through the wings to get a photo of the colourful abdomen.
Sometimes it's the small things that pass unnoticed by most that really complement, accent and make the image special. As these 2hrs were unfolding, and I was beginning to question my sanity, the smell of blood (I know, I know, it's haemolymph) in the air and possibly some droplets on the bark attracted some nearby ants. Normally this amblypygid would be snug against the tree trunk feeding, however, to do so here, would be an invitation to the ants. Thus it makes fully use of its long, stilt legs, and is at full stretch, which also allowed for more effective use of backlighting. Small ant in foreground, is just one in a small line.
Amblypygid with katydid prey photographed for the #SaniProject2017. Follow us at @destinationecuador #Sanilodge #paulbertner.