Photos By Gail
Giant Malaysian Leaf Insects, also known as walking leaves or leaf mimics, are fascinating creatures found in Southeast Asia. They belong to the order Phasmatodea, which includes stick insects and leaf insects. These insects are known for their remarkable leaf-like appearance, which helps them blend seamlessly into their surroundings, providing camouflage and protection from predators. Continue reading Giant Malaysian Leaf Insect
Photo By Gail
“This invention relates to educational devices, and has particular reference to an apparatus for facilitating the observation, study and photography of subterranean life, especially the life and habits of insects and smaller animals who live underground.” So began Frank Austin ((1873 – 1964)’s application to the U.S. Patent Office, filed on June 21, 1929, for his storied Ant House (also known as the Ant Farm).
A simple design based on glass panes and soil or sand allowed a curious viewer to observe as ants or other insects furrowed their way through the ground. Word has it that Austin paid local boys $4.00 a quart for ants brought in alive, and that carpenter ants were his preference as they were the largest and most interesting. His patent application consciously stated that that “other objects of the invention reside in the simplicity of construction and mode of use of the device, the economy with which is may be produced and the general efficiency derived therefrom.”
Photographed in Chamber Boutique on 23rd Street, West of 10th Avenue.
All Photos By Gail
Artist Mary Sweeney’s Honeybees reflect her fascination with insects. These two meticulously rendered Mandalas produce a complex aura that alludes to the mystery surrounding the disappearance of beehives, and how their disease imperils all life on Earth. The lacelike rendering of the stilled bodies rekindles their steady droning, if only in the memory of the viewer.
Photographed at A.I.R Gallery Located at 111 Front Street in DUMBO.
Yes, it exists; an eight-inch long, flourescent Pink Slug! These eye-catching creatures have been spotted only on Mount Kaputar, a 5,000-foot peak in the Nandewar Range in northern New South Wales, Australia. Read more about how they probably got there at This Link!
Thanks to both Michelle and Zombo for the Tip!
