Yesterday, as I stepped out to get the mail, I noticed a large green insect on the deck. It turned out to be a “leaf insect” or Katydid.
Initially I took photos with my standard lens, but I soon realised it was an ideal subject for my new macro lens. The insect kept moving, so I found a thin stick and encouraged the insect to take hold. It didn’t need much persuading. I was then able to place the stick on the table to line up the shot. Using the Macro lens is a different technique as I lose the depth of field I am used to capturing. However, it does allow the detail of the leaf imitation to be seen clearly.
In researching the species, I have discovered that Torbia means ‘walking’ , and this Genus of insects have nymphs which resemble ants. All of the species within the Torbia Genus apparently have some kind of association with gum trees.
After I finished photographing, I took the Katydid down to a leafy gum tree and watched it crawl onto a twig where it became perfectly camouflaged.


Reblogged this on hocuspocus13.
Great pics…what a cool looking bug👍👍
I love katydids. I saw some when I live in KY..had forgotten about the precious little things.