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Eyed Hawkmoth Caterpillar


Eyed Hawkmoth Caterpillar
Photo Information
Copyright: Nigel Deacon (Merlin) Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 393 W: 230 N: 340] (1094)
Genre: Animals
Medium: Color
Date Taken: 2005-07
Categories: Insects
Camera: Nikon Coolpix 4500
Exposure: f/6.1, 1/294 seconds
Photo Version: Original Version
Theme(s): Acrobat animals, Mimicry [view contributor(s)]
Date Submitted: 2005-10-30 12:48
Viewed: 1692
Points: 18
[Note Guidelines] Photographer's Note
Eyed Hawkmoth Smerinthus ocellata

Well distributed, but local, throughout England and Wales, this species has a camouflaged appearance at rest, but if provoked, flashes the hindwings, which are decorated with intense blue and black 'eyes' on a pink background. The adults fly from May to July, inhabiting woodland and suburban localities, and are usually single brooded in the UK. However, in 2005 most of my captive-bred pupae emerged in August for a second brood, instead of overwintering. More evidence of climate change?

The larvae are fairly typical of the hawkmoth family, in being large and robust (about as long and thick as an adult man's finger)with a pointed spine or "horn" at the tail. The Eyed Hawkmoth caterpillar is particularly well camouflaged, and this is enhanced by the fact that it mostly feeds nocturnally, remaining motionless by day.
scottevers7, marhowie, cedryk, livios has marked this note useful
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Critiques [Translate]

  • Great 
  • manyee Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 3067 W: 231 N: 6160] (21052)
  • [2005-10-30 12:54]

Hello Nigel. A master of camouflage, this one... but it seems you found him out!
A beautiful capture of this caterpillar with excellent focus, light, and composition. The markings on his body are so delicate. You did a superb job of showing them off. Congratulations and TFS. : )

Great shot of this caterpillar with perfect detail. It definitely demonstrates it's ability when it comes to camouflage. Paul :)

Excellent close-up picture.
I am adding this picture in the Acrobat Animal picture !!!

Hi Nigel,
Excellent shot on this Hawk Moth Caterpillar. There are many beautiful shades of green in this one. Very fine detail. The composition and framing look perfect. A great shot with great notes!
Scott

Good light, Great sharpness and natural color Nigel. Another excellent example of camouflage. Good notes also. Well done & Thank You.

Nice detail, solid shot.

Greg

Hello Nigel,
Very nice shot. I would make some corrections though:
1) Crop out the sky as it only distracts the viewer
2) Sharpen the caterpillar

Still a great work!
Greetings,
Michal

  • Great 
  • RII Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Note Writer [C: 485 W: 0 N: 884] (2812)
  • [2006-01-16 4:59]

Hi NIgel.
fantastic macro,excellent details and colors, great compositions.
Saludos...RICARDO.

PD.I have some caterpillars,check my photos.

  • Great 
  • livios Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 2156 W: 322 N: 4258] (16906)
  • [2006-03-02 13:51]

Nigel, what a great image. I do enjoy it.

Excellent capture, pov and composition. Exposure and sharpness are excellent too. Lovely shades of green.

Congratulations.

I added your picture to a theme of mine.

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