Photography Kevin Fleming on 27 Jun 2008 10:19 am
salt marsh greenhead
Could the devil himself design a more annoying, bloodthirsty creature? I know the greenhead fly has an important role in the life of our salt marshes. And I also know this abundant and persistent female has a powerful and painful bite. Thousands of emerald eye facets give the greenhead fly a visual advantage in tracking its target. It bites the victim with scissor-like mouthparts that tear flesh and suck blood. Young adult females lay their first egg mass of 100 to 200 eggs without seeking blood. Then in order to lay a second mass they need a blood meal. If you have ever spent much time on the salt marsh in the summer you are probably familiar with this determined lady.
on 27 Jun 2008 at 11:30 am 1.Christina said …
What kind of lens did you use to get so close?
on 28 Jun 2008 at 9:01 am 2.Kevin Fleming said …
Hi Christina,
I used a 60mm Micro lens with an extension tube to allow even closer focus.
Thanks, Kevin