Grasshopper on the Beach
by Mitch Spence
Title
Grasshopper on the Beach
Artist
Mitch Spence
Medium
Photograph
Description
I was startled to find this lubber grasshopper, with his striking colors and patterns, on the beach. It's not what I would have thought of as his comfort zone. His expression might seem to suggest that he's surprised to find himself there too, although I suspect the "expression" actually doesn't change much for this guy. I was right down there face to face and having a conversation with him for this image.
The eastern lubber grasshopper (Romalea microptera and also Romalea guttata - same species) inhabits the southeastern US. It is quite clumsy and slow, and its name, derived from an old English word “lobre” which means lazy or clumsy, is appropriate. Not only is this large, heavy-bodied grasshopper unable to fly, but it is poor at leaping as well, so mostly it is observed walking. However, it is a good climber, and often climbs trees to feed on tender foliage at the tips of branches. Watch but don't touch this insect. If you pick it up, it will make a loud hissing noise and secrete an irritating, foul-smelling foamy spray.
Uploaded
July 8th, 2017
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Viewed 206 Times - Last Visitor from Beverly Hills, CA on 04/18/2024 at 6:05 AM
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