Esperance Fauna

Caedicia sp. – Orange/mustard Morph

2012-01-30T19:41:00.001+08:00

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Caedicia sp. – Orange/mustard Morph

Insects in the Caedicia genus are commonly known as Bush Katydids from the large Tettigonioidea family. These particular Katydids are normally green, so this orange/mustard form is unusual and not known to Dr David Rentz (Australian authority). However in the Mt. Merivale district 20 km (12 miles) east of Esperance it may not be so unusual, as I have also encountered an early nymph (not photographed) with the same colouration, although the wings were only partially developed.

Apparently there is much work still to be done on Caedicia, with as many species remaining undescribed as there are officially named and even these are in need of revision. These Katydids are herbivorous and the above were found crawling through Taxandria callistachys, an upright shrub that grows in large dominant colonies in and around swamps, and produces small clusters of white tea-tree like flowers for most of the year (see habitat shot).

The head and body length of the above female was around 2.5 cm (1”), but she had longer wings. A very small ovipositor (typical for these Katydids) can be seen in the hand-held photo of her, which is used by this group to lay eggs between layers within a leaf, or in rows along twigs, stems, or in the ground. The Katydid above was reluctant to fly, preferring to climb through the vegetation, but when she did, it was more of a flutter that did not carry her far. The insects were seen in December and January.

Further reading: A Guide to the Katydids of Australia by David Rentz.

Southern Carpet Python - Morelia spilota subsp. imbricata

2012-01-24T16:58:00.001+08:00

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Southern Carpet Python - Morelia spilota subsp. imbricata

The largest snake in the Esperance region growing to a good 2.5 metres. I saw one once crawling across a limestone track on its way to a rocky outcrop, so got a good look at it stretched out and I would have estimated it was closer to 3 metres in length. It was obviously an old snake and was looking a bit battered and worn. I walked up to it, there was no reaction to me and it just kept going along its way. I find this indifferent reaction common amongst the big old snakes; they are the top predator in their environment and don't try to disguise the fact.

Although these Carpet Pythons occur on some of the south coast islands and should by rights also exist on the mainland around Esperance, I have not seen them and if there are some, then they would be quite rare. The pythons I have seen have all been in the mallee country to the NE of Esperance on granite outcrops or exposed limestone with deep holes. Here they can sometimes be seen sunbaking outside on sunny mornings. They are not venomous, but can still give a very nasty bite, so best left well alone.

Pythons are easily identified by their size and broad arrow shaped head, it is the only python in the Esperance region so cannot be confused with any other. This particular species occurs in numerous habitats thoughout most of Australia and with such distribution there are a number of subspecies of which the local one is properly known as Morelia spilota subsp. imbricata. The larger mammals and possibly birds would make up most of this snakes diet, which makes me wonder if this reflects their numbers locally, particularly as so many medium sized mammals have gone locally extinct (see Mammals - An Overview).

Update January 2012

Two photos added, which were taken on non-digital film 14 years ago and only now retrieved. The python was around 2 metres (6’-7’) in length and in the process of digesting a recent meal (probably a rabbit), whilst resting part way down a limestone sinkhole, with a small opening (barely accessible for me) at the bottom. These sinkholes are common in the mallee region NE of Esperance, where relatively small open plains (several hectares/acres) are created when limestone is close to the surface, thereby restricting the root-growth of the larger trees and shrubs.

Common Marauding Katydid - Metaballus frontalis

2012-01-13T17:11:00.000+08:00

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Common Marauding Katydid - Metaballus frontalis

The katydid usually representing this species has predominantly green coloration (as here), but this orange/brown form is much less common, with the above the only one of this colour morph I have seen. Metaballus frontalis is recorded predominantly in near coastal heath from Kalbarri (north of Perth) to Israelite Bay (east of Esperance), with the above specimen discovered near a flood plain 20 km east of Esperance.

The colour of the above female katydid was most impressive giving the insect an exotic appearance, but it was still reasonably well camouflaged when on the ground amongst the plentiful flat leaved sedge. When disturbed it would flutter, rather than fly 2-3 metres, then drop quickly through the 60 cm (2’) high heath vegetation to the ground, to then remain motionless.

All Katydids belong to the Tettigoniidae family, which is further divided into Subfamilies, of which Metaballus frontalis is placed into Tettigoniinae, these are commonly called Shield-backed Katydids in reference to the shield-like plate (pronotum) behind their head. These insects are quite diverse in many respects and regarding their diet can be either predaceous or herbivorous, or both. Metaballus frontalis falls into the ‘both’ category by feeding on other insects and/or flowers.

The head and body length was a little over 3 cm (11/4”) in length, the ovipositor projecting from the rear was another 3 cm, making a total (ex antennae) of over 6 cm or 2.5”, with the wing length in between. From observations of other Metaballus spp, they seem to be most active during pleasantly warm days, but not during particularly hot or cold periods.

Further reading: A Guide to the Katydids of Australia, by David Rentz.

Hairy Flower Wasp – Scoliidae – Campsomeris sp.

2012-01-03T19:37:00.003+08:00

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Hairy Flower Wasp – Scoliidae – Campsomeris sp.

Most Hairy Flower Wasps are black or blue/black, but the Campsomeris genus have orange, yellow or gold markings and generally are amongst the largest of wasps with the above species being 3-4 cm (1.5”) in head/body length. They are solitary insects without a nest, as the female lays a single egg on a paralysed and insensitised (stung) scarab beetle larvae, leaving it to hatch and consume the host. Because these wasps have no nest to protect and fortunately for people are not aggressive and will only sting if physically interfered with.

Both males and females of this family are winged, but can differ considerably in other ways; with Campsomeris the males are similar but slimmer and have longer antennae (the above wasp is female). The female will dig into the ground in search of scarab larvae, including mown lawns so can be found around human habitation. Males on the other hand will often fly close to the ground waiting for the females to emerge, which will indicate wasps are active in the immediate area.

With all the digging and flying activity, these wasps need the energy of sugars found in flower nectar and can be encountered with their head buried amongst the blossom. Locally, the individual Melaleuca subfalcata flowers are favoured, which also attract other flower wasps.

To distinguish Hairy Flower Wasps (Scoliidae) from other wasps (including other flower wasps) that may also be hairy, features like the general shape of the insect, antennae (number of segments) and the eye (kidney shaped) are important. However the most distinctive is the venation of the (yellow) wings, particularly the fine parallel pseudovenation (grooves) near the wing tips (see photo above). These wasps are widespread and most active during warmer months.

Disappearing Grasshopper - Schizobothrus sp. aff. flavovittatus

2011-12-16T17:18:00.000+08:00

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Disappearing Grasshopper - Schizobothrus sp. aff. flavovittatus

The Schizobothrus genus currently has only a single species, but according to Dr D Rentz and Dr R Lewis, both authorities on Australian Orthoptera (Crickets and Grasshoppers), they thought the one above was probably a new species. However its habits are similar to S, flavovittatus, for when disturbed it too will quickly disappear into low grass, which in this case was Sporobolus virginicus (Marine Couch) a common couch type grass of saline coastal inlets, brackish creeks and salt-lakes.

This particular grasshopper was quite common, although very localised within a few metres/yards of a brackish creek near its exit into the sea east of Esperance. They varied in size from 2-3 cm (around 1”) in length and would commonly perch on reeds, but hop to the ground and into the matted Marine Couch, where their coloration made them difficult to locate unless the exact landing area was spotted.

They are obviously permanent residents, as a couple of flightless nymph stages were also seen, and probably more are distributed further up the creek, although dense vegetation makes access on foot impossible. The above photos were taken during March and April, but none were seen during the colder months.

Scolopendridae - Cormocephalus sp.

2011-11-28T19:07:00.000+08:00

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Scolopendridae - Cormocephalus sp.

Centipedes in the Scolopendridae family are common and widespread in Australia and include our largest species. They are identified by having 21 pairs of legs and narrow breathing holes (spiracles) along the side of their body, which have adaptations (valves and muscles) permitting them to open and close. This means they are less susceptible to moisture loss and therefore able to live in more arid regions.

As far as I can tell, all the above are the same species, comprising a mixture of immature and adults. The largest one above (around 10 cm or 4” in length) is feeding on a rival and was kindly identified by the Australian Museum as Cormocephalus westwoodi, so presumably so are the others.

They are usually encountered on the ground where commonly found in leaf-litter or under rocks and logs. However around Esperance I often see them 2 or more metres (6’-10’) above the ground on Banksia speciosa flowers, where they generally have their upper parts buried into the flower cluster and their rear end exposed. These flowers are probably a productive nocturnal hunting ground for them, as they attract many insects and spiders they consume.

The centipede is a top predator in the invertebrate world and can grasp prey with all its legs, including the longer ones at the rear, it also has fangs each side of the head that are modified legs but capable of injecting venom. The helpless victim is then torn apart by the mouthparts. Like most centipedes the Scolopendridae have only rudimentary eyesight, so do not run down their prey, but enter burrows or ambush passing invertebrates, although some of the larger species are known to catch and eat vertebrates like small lizards and frogs.

Flower Wasp - Tiphiidae - Hemithynnus sp.

2011-11-17T18:03:00.001+08:00

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Flower Wasp - Tiphiidae - Hemithynnus sp.

Wasps in the Tiphiidae family are generally known as Flower Wasps as the adults feed on the nectar of various flowers. It is a large family that is represented in Australia by 3 sub-families, two of which both the male and female wasps have wings, but in the third Thynninae, the female is wingless and is carried about or otherwise feed by the much larger winged male.

The male thynnine wasps are attracted to the females when she releases a pheromone to indicate she is ready to mate. It is interesting to note that many plants, particularly orchids mimic this pheromone to attract the male wasp, who inadvertently pollinates them when they grasp the labellum, which they think is the female. However most of these wasps would be much smaller than this species (probably a Hemithynnus sp.) that is over 3 cm (11/4”) in length (excluding antennae), so a little large for most orchid flowers. The wingless female above (which may not be the same species) is about a third the size of the male.

These wasps are parasitic on the larvae of burrowing scarab beetles, whereby after mating the wingless female digs into the soil to locate them and will then lay at least one egg on each. They must encounter a number, as they are reasonably common in the Esperance (near coastal) sandy heath from November to January.

Wedge-tailed Eagle – Aquila audax subsp. audax

2011-10-31T17:37:00.001+08:00

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Wedge-tailed Eagle – Aquila audax subsp. audax

Most Australians are familiar with the Wedge-tailed Eagle as it occurs throughout much of the country including Tasmania, although there it is subsp, fleayi, whilst all mainland ones are subsp. audax. The only bird that could be confused with this species is the White-bellied Sea-Eagle, which can be seen around all coastal waters. The adults are easy to distinguish, with the Sea-eagle having a white belly and the wedge-tail being dark brown or black. However the juvenile Sea-eagle also has a brown belly, but can be identified by the broader wings that are held stiffly upright in a wide V shape, whilst the Wedge-tail has a much flatter (almost horizontal) carriage when soaring.

In the Esperance region of Western Australia this bird is not uncommon, being widely distributed, but especially around large granite outcrops that are common around the coast and inland to the north and northeast of the town. Each inland outcrop would have at least one pair of birds who defend it against other wedge-tailed eagles, even if they do not actually nest on the rock, but probably do so in larger trees that often grow nearby. Their wingspan is to 2.3 metres (7’ 6”) so are impressive looking birds when they come to look you over.

The above young bird (perched on the rock) was very intrigued by my presence and had probably not seen a person before and certainly not on its rock, as we were situated in remote bush around 80 km from the closest road. However, I could not get closer than 30 metres before it would lift off and glide a little further away. The soaring one was photographed from the top of Mt Ney 75 km (45 miles) NE of Esperance, who had also come to check me out, but was not interested in getting closer.

Wedge-tailed Eagles do hunt, but will also scavenge dead animals and are a common sight along outback highways where they feed on roadkill and unfortunately often become causalities themselves, as they are slow to lift off and unless into a strong wind, can be hit by fast moving vehicles. Wedge-tailed Eagles are more often seen on clear but windy days, when they will glide effortlessly over large areas in search of food. The eagles generally pair for life and do not seek another mate unless one dies.

Roe’s Jewel Beetle - Stigmodera roei

2011-09-16T00:01:00.003+08:00

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Roe’s Jewel Beetle - Stigmodera roei

Jewel Beetles belong to the Buprestidae family and contain some of the most colourful beetles; Roe's Jewel Beetle with its iridescent metallic hues in my opinion also falls into this category. It grows to around 2.5 cm (1”) in length making it one of the largest from non-tropical regions, where most invertebrates achieve their maximum size and greatest diversity.

Stigmodera roei is confined to Western Australia where only found in southern regions. It is named after John Septimus Roe (1797-1878), who was the WA Surveyor General and led an exploration expedition from Perth to the Esperance region in 1848, travelling inland (mallee region) on the way out and returning via the coast. During this nearly 3,000 km (1800 mile) journey, he discovered and named many local landmarks. In recognition of his efforts a number of plant and animals species have since been named after him.

Most local Jewel Beetles are encountered in the warmer inland mallee region and in this instance a highly floriferous district 110 km (70 miles) NW of Esperance. These areas are distinguished by their deep sand or gravel soils, which are less common in these regions, but nevertheless support many plant species. The above beetles were very common feeding on the flowers of Grevillea teretifolia and most shrubs had one or two of these spectacular insects totally absorbed in their feeding activity.

Tangle-veined Fly - Trichophthalma sp.

2011-09-01T17:50:00.000+08:00

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Tangle-veined Fly - Trichophthalma sp.

The Tangle-veined Fly belongs to the Tabanoidea Superfamily that includes such nasties as the March and Horse Flies. However in the Trichophthalma family Nemestrinidae, instead of feeding on blood, feed on flowers via a long sucking proboscis. They are often seen hovering with rapid wing-beats whilst feeding, or will hover in the same spot for some time before darting away only to quickly return. This activity and their solid build suggest a Bee Fly, but with those flies the wings are much longer and they don’t have an extended point to their abdomen.

Also like Bee Flies, Tangle-veined Flies are softly hairy, plus their larvae are parasitic on various insects including grasshoppers, so both play an important role regarding insect control. The pointy end of the female abdomen contains a retractable ovipositor (for egg-laying) and is probably used to favourably place their eggs on or within an insect host.

The wing venation is quite congested compared to most fly wings, which is how they get their Tangle-veined common name. Above, the fly is feeding from a common shrub of coastal calcareous sand, Logania vaginalis that is detailed in the Esperance Wildflower Blog (located top right). These flies are not an evolutionary new-comer but have a long linage, as they also occur in South America to suggest a Gondwana origin.

Centipede – Scutigeridae sp.

2011-08-27T20:23:00.000+08:00

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Centipede – Scutigeridae sp.

Centipedes belong to the Class Chilopoda that has 5 Orders with the above species belonging to Scutigeromorpha. These orders are further divided into families (Scutigeridae for the above), genera and species, so are quite a large group of animals of around 3,000 species worldwide. However they are nowhere as numerous as the similar looking millipedes that have 15 Orders and species numbering in the tens of thousands.

This difference in species numbers between centipedes and millipedes likely relates to their diets, with the latter feeding on plant and dead animal matter that would be readily available, whereas centipedes are predators capturing and feeding on live prey that may not be so available therefore limiting their numbers. Both groups however have similar breathing systems that require moist humid conditions to function efficiently, so are less common in drier climates like Esperance and much more plentiful in tropical regions.

These Scutigeridae (2-3 cm or 1” long) centipedes are seldom seen locally, but in the Eastern States they have the introduced European House Centipede (Scutigera coleoptera) that enters houses to hunt spiders and insects. However the indigenous species above was encountered in remote mallee country 100 km (62 miles) NW of Esperance.

These House type centipedes differ from others by having much longer legs for speed, long antennae and functional eyes (most centipedes are either blind or have only rudimentary sight). Despite their wispy leggy appearance, these features help make these animals highly effective predators, giving prey little chance of escape. The exceptionally long antennae like appendages pointing upwards in the photographs are actually the rear pair of legs, the antennae are at the other end with the eyes.

Millipede - Order Spirobolida

2011-08-18T17:12:00.000+08:00

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Millipede - Order Spirobolida

Millipedes go back a very long way and around 400 million years ago were probably one of the first animals to venture onto dry land. With such a long linage it is not surprising that they have branched off into many forms and species, which today has resulted in 15 Orders and many Families, plus individual species that number in their thousands. However, these creatures are poorly known and vast numbers are yet to be studied and described. They are found worldwide favouring tropical regions.

The Order Spirobolida contains millipedes that are circular in cross-section and especially in the family Spirobolidae (as the above millipedes), can twist and turn their bodies in many directions and at the same time. These like other millipedes are able to discharge a very unpleasant chemical to discourage predators, which obviously works well as there are few.

In the Esperance region the millipedes from the Spirobolida order are commonly found under moisture retaining limestone or granite rocks. Elsewhere they also favour leaf-litter and the underside of logs, but locally these are either too dry, or not common, and if available are quickly colonised by ants that are reluctant to share. The flexible exoskeleton of these animals do not have a waxy coating to efficiently retain body moisture, so in order to survive they need moist and/or humid conditions, hence their liking for tropical conditions. Around Esperance with a much drier climate, they are most active from late autumn to spring and even then usually only at night.

Spirobolida millipedes can be quite large with some species reaching 20 cm (8”) in length, although around Esperance half that size would be regarded as being large. They tend to consume dead/decaying plant and animal matter, but some will eat small soft-bodied invertebrates when encountered, although being blind they are not active predators. However with this type of diet, they do not need to move around much and providing their habitat remains moist, are able to survive long dry summers with few adverse consequences. Therefore suitable habitat with local millipedes is their most important consideration.

Millipedes - Order Polydesmida

2011-08-05T19:18:00.001+08:00

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Millipedes - Order Polydesmida

The numbers involved when dealing with invertebrates are truly staggering, for instance with Millipedes worldwide, there are 15 Orders of which 9 are represented in Australia and most of these have several families, each with many genera and those with a long list of species. However, despite these mind-blowing details most people only think of the introduced black Portuguese one when millipedes are mentioned. Yet of the hundreds of Australian species, most keep to themselves, which has meant these animals are largely unknown.

The Order Polydesmida is the largest of the 15 Orders with nearly 3,000 named species worldwide, but this figure is not representative, as the actual figure could be several times that amount. This is because many species have only small ranges and will not move further afield, to the extent that some will not enter another species territory and with a country the size of Australia, vast areas have not been investigated for these animals. The family Paradoxosomatidae that covers the millipedes shown above, tend to be very similar in appearance and are probably in greatest need of research, and to confuse the matter further, there is another introduced species called Oxidus gracilis the Greenhouse Millipede that is similar looking and also found here.

Most female millipedes lay their eggs in the ground a few centimetres (1”-2”) below the surface, which for the Portuguese millipede can number well over 200 eggs. So earth and potted plant movement may explain how this introduced species has managed to colonise areas of human occupation so effectively, yet is rarely encountered in undisturbed naturally vegetated regions between.

Polydesmida millipedes have between 18 and 21 body segments, whereas the Portuguese one has between 40 and 50, so their identification should not be confused. Polydesmida millipedes are blind and live in leaf litter, feeding on decaying plant and animal matter. As a defence they roll themselves into a tight ball and discharge a highly smelly and distasteful substance, consequently most predators keep their distance, although some primitive burrowing spiders will readily feed on them.

Millipedes differ most obviously from centipedes by having 2 pairs of legs per body segment, against the latter with only one pair. Polydesmida species range between 2 - 4 cm (3/4”-11/2”) and the above were found in near coastal heathland or the inland mallee region, with all being discovered after rainfall from April to August.

There are five different individuals shown in the above photographs.

Land Snails - Bothriembryon spp.

2011-07-04T16:08:00.003+08:00

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Land Snails - Bothriembryon spp.

Surprisingly throughout Australia there are hundreds of Land Snail species, belonging to a considerable number of families. Naturally the eastern States with their higher rainfall, particularly the northern areas have the greatest number, but they are also found in arid regions. Around Esperance Land Snails are not uncommon, even in the dry mallee district as their dead shells testify after bushfires. Most local species are members of the Bulimulidae family that are obviously well adapted to low rainfall conditions, although locally are mainly active from June to October when conditions are generally cool and moist.

I usually encounter these molluscs at night, early morning or near dusk, but they are never in any quantity making them always a pleasant surprise to encounter. Most land snails are herbivores and feed only on vegetation (living or dead) and fungi, but are not attracted to vegetable gardens like introduced snails that are rightfully regarded as pests. To obtain the calcium required for shell making, they will grind particles of limestone, a common feature of mallee regions, which might explain why they are so numerous there. No doubt they also frequented coastal calcareous dunes, but have probably been displaced by the introduced Italian Snails that can occur is plague proportions, although thankfully rarely venture into neighbouring non-calcareous (heathland) zones.

Some of the local native snails can grow to over 3 cm (11/4”) in shell length and going on dead shell clusters (after fires) must periodically gather together for reproduction or a desirable food source. Above are at least two photographed species and possibly as many as five, but the differences between them are not easily discernible unless detailed inspections are made of the animals, especially a comparison with identified shell collections. There are undoubtedly many other Land Snail species in the Esperance region, particularly in remote districts or unusual habitats, but to find them would require specialised knowledge plus the dedication to do so.

Update July 2011
Two photographs of the common Esperance region mallee land snail. These snails have shells to 3 cm (over 1”) in length that are commonly encountered throughout the region, although those containing live animals are seldom seen.

Senecio Moth - Nyctemera amicus

2011-06-28T16:43:00.018+08:00

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Senecio Moth - Nyctemera amicus

This moth is part of the Arctiidae family that are commonly known as Tiger Moths due to their striped abdomen, which in this instance is black and yellow. This particular species is called the Senecio Moth (Senecios are a daisy), because their larvae apparently only feed on these plants and specifically S. cruentus, S. linearifolius, S. mikanioides, S. quadridentatus, and S. scandens. Only Senecio quadridentatus occurs in Western Australia and I have a small persistent colony growing around Banksia speciosa near me, which is why I have the Senecio Moth here.

The Senecio species the larvae feed upon contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are produced to stop insects from eating them, but obviously this moth's larvae has adapted to tolerate this poison. However these alkaloids also make the larvae poisonous or highly distasteful to predators like birds, which apparently extends to the adult moth as they can fly around during the day without incurring bird attacks.

According to the Lepidoptera Butterflyhouse Website the Senecio Moth is not found in WA, but I have records going back 5 years for Nyctemera amicus, which indicates it has been around locally for a while. The moth is around 2 cm (3/4”) in length (excluding antennae) and can be seen anytime of the year, but these sightings are probably because locally, this Senecio is only found around me and only elsewhere after fire and even then is quite rare. So my sightings although reasonably common, may not reflect the population density elsewhere in WA, as locally the moths must return in order to reproduce.

Flower Weevil - Meriphus australis

2011-06-23T16:59:00.001+08:00

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Flower Weevil - Meriphus australis

The Meriphus genus is part of the very large weevil subfamily Curculioninae, which includes thousands of species worldwide. This group have elbowed antennae and a scape (first antennae segment) much longer than any other segment and although the snout length varies considerably, Flower Weevils have extremely long ones to enable the insect to reach deeply into the blooms.

Meriphus australis is only a small beetle of 5-8 mm (1/4”) in head/body length (including snout), but has proportionally one of the longest rostrums of over a third of their entire length. With this they access and consume various floral parts and in particular pollen, during which microscopic accumulations become attached and passed to other flowers and shrubs to enable cross-pollination.

Apparently this beetle species is restricted to Western Australia, although other long nosed flower weevils commonly occur elsewhere, but due their small size, these endearing little beetles usually go unnoticed. The one above was photographed at the end of January.

Further reading:
A Guide to the Beetles of Australia by Hangay and Zborowski.

Longicorn Beetle - Cerambycinae spp.

2011-06-20T18:23:00.001+08:00

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Longicorn Beetle - Cerambycinae spp.

Cerambycinae is a subfamily of the Longicorn family Cerambycidae and is most obviously separated from other subfamilies by having a forward facing head (not sharply deflexed), a stridulatory file for making calls and long slender legs, of which the hind ones are longer than the mid legs. Apart from the Uracanthus genus, most other species have parallel sided elytrons (hardened forewings).

Many members of this subfamily are on the lower end of the longicorn size range, but what they lack in size they often make up with brighter coloration. Although the larvae bore into living or dead wood, some adults feed on flowers and can be important pollinators by carrying pollen from one plant to another. A characteristic of most Longicorn Beetles is a slender body with long antennae and in some places they are known as Longhorn Beetles, which is the English translation from the Latin Longicorn.

When spitting timber, it is not unusual to encounter bored out tunnels coming to and abrupt end; this is the sign of a Longicorn Beetle. For as they slowly burrow by feeding on the host tree timber, when ready to pupate they simply stop eating without making any attempt to construct an outlet for the adult to escape. The surrounding timber will however protect the developing beetle from predators and extreme temperature changes including most bushfires. To escape, the timber waste created by the larvae during its boring activity accumulates at its rear thereby creating a protective plug, but that is easy for the adults to tunnel through with their large mandibles.

Longicorn Beetles are most active at night during the warmer months, particularly if humid or when rain is expected. To see what species are in your area, most of these beetles are attracted to house lights, so it is a simple matter of periodically checking external lights for new arrivals.

Longicorn Beetle - Uracanthus spp.

2011-06-11T19:06:00.003+08:00

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Longicorn Beetle - Uracanthus spp.

The Uracanthus genus belongs to Cerambycinae the largest of the five Longicorn Beetle subfamilies (family Cerambycidae), with a worldwide distribution, of which Australia currently has over 1200 described species. Uracanthus has 39 described species, but like most invertebrates there are probably a number yet to be discovered. With the assistance of a Ph.D thesis by Duangrat Thongphak published in 2007 and available online, titled, ‘Systematics of the Australian Longicorn Beetle Genus Uracanthus Hope 1833’ I was able to name five the above beetles.

Beetles in this genus are characterised (amongst other features) by the long slender elytra (hardened forewings covering the hind wings and abdomen), which taper (not parallel) to the rear of the beetle, plus the first rear tarsal segment (foot portion) is as long or longer than the following two segments. The Uracanthus larvae as with other Longicorn Beetles are borers, many of which are host specific. However, some of these beetles are regarded as pests as they attack a variety of fruit trees, so are not popular in fruit-growing regions although Esperance not being one does not suffer from this problem.

The beetles vary in head/body length (excluding antennae) from 1-6 cm (3/8”- 21/2”), although those shown above are in the mid-size range, but are still impressive looking insects, particularly the males that have the larger antennae. They are attracted to house lights and can be found on warm moist evenings, particularly during summer.

Update June 2011
Photos of four additional species added.

Longicorn Beetle - Prioninae sp.

2011-06-03T18:24:00.000+08:00

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Longicorn Beetle - Prioninae sp.

Prioninae is one of five subfamilies in the Longicorn Beetle family Cerambycidae and are large robust beetles from 2.5 - 7.5 cm (1”- 3”) long, excluding the antennae. These are nocturnal and normally coloured dark brown or black and often attracted to house lights, where they can be common on warm humid summer nights.

The beetles above are 4 - 5 cm (nearly 2”) in head/body length and being so chunky with awe-inspiring antennae, are quite impressive to find perched on the flyscreen. Such robust beetles also have large larvae, which spend their time boring into local Banksia, Eucalyptus and Grasstrees to feed on dead, dying or rotting wood. Large moth larvae are known as Witchetty Grubs and are eagerly sought as bush-food by aborigines and others, but these large beetle grubs are similar in size and appearance and are consumed with equal relish.

The larvae plus the adult beetles are equipped with large sharp mandibles that can not only make short work of timber, but also give a solid bite to any finger placed too close, so care should be taken if handling them. Despite their powerful jaws and their capacity to dispatch most invertebrates, none of the many Longicorn species are predatory, but feed exclusively on plant material with many beetles being host specific.

Tawny Frogmouth - Podargus strigoides

2011-05-27T17:57:00.001+08:00

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Tawny Frogmouth - Podargus strigoides

Frogmouth birds are more closely related to the Nightjars despite superficially looking like an Owl, but have no close relationship with them although they do have a common ancestor dating back 60 or more million years. There are many differences between these groups, but most obviously is the small sharply pointed beak and taloned feet of owls that are used to catch and eat largely small vertebrate prey. Frogmouths on the other hand only have large mouths to grab usually smaller prey that are swallowed whole. Prey for these birds besides including small vertebrates, also involves a high portion of invertebrates.

Owls are not commonly seen around Esperance as there are relatively few large trees with nesting hollows in which they can breed, whereas the more common Tawny Frogmouth builds a simple stick nest in the fork of a branch, thereby making the local sparse tree heathland more suitable for them. The above photographs were enabled by one of these birds bumping into the house floor to ceiling grass doors, probably to catch a moth. It was not a hard collision so the bird was not harmed, but decided to check things out from ground level, which allowed me to quickly take a few photos through the glass before it flew off.

The size of Tawny Frogmouths are apparently highly variable with the southern Podargus strigoides subsp. strigoides being much larger than its northern cousin and can exceed ½ metre (20”) in length. Interestingly, most references state this species of Frogmouth has yellow eyes, but you will notice the one above has bright orange/red ones and more like the Papuan Frogmouth eye color. However after some research on the internet I came across a comprehensive program run by the Western Sydney Institute of TAFE, Richmond called the ‘Husbandry Guidelines for Tawny Frogmouth’ by Phipps, Salkeld and Walker in which they state “The eye of a Tawny Frogmouth is yellow as is the inside of the mouth and throat. However across some of the sub-species the eye colour can vary from a pale yellow to a deep orange.”

Regarding the identification of gender, apparently with Frogmouths this is not easy to do as both sexes are very similar although the male is often slightly larger, but you need to have them together to appreciate the difference. And again from the same reference above “Furthermore these dimorphic characteristics cannot be relied upon in all cases to determine the sex of individuals. Therefore I would consider Tawny Frogmouths to be monomorphic.”

True Weevils – Curculionidae spp.

2011-05-17T18:06:00.000+08:00

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True Weevils – Curculionidae spp.

Weevils are one of the most common beetles that are divided into a number of smaller family groups in the huge superfamily Curculionoidea, Curculionidae or the True Weevils is one of these families. However, Curculionidae is not only the largest weevil family, but is the largest animal family in the world with over 40,000 described species and probably a similar number yet to be. Australia currently has around 6500 known species.

True weevils most obviously differ from other weevils by having antennae that are clubbed and elbowed, with the scape (first antennae segment) much longer than any other segment. Their snouts can be long or short, although I have separated those with long snouts into a separate post. These beetles are plant eaters with different species eating different plant parts (living or dead), or feed exclusively on certain plant species. The larvae mostly bore into the leaves, stems, seeds or pods of the host plants and for this reason some are pests of agricultural crops, although most only consume indigenous vegetation.

Curculionidae spp. come in a wide range of sizes from 1.5 - 65 mm in length (1/16”- 2 ½”), although mostly around 1 cm (3/8”) or less. They differ in color, markings and ornamentation with some species being quite spectacular. As can be seen above, the male mounts the female from behind, which I would imagine could be quite awkward for long spiky species. With this in mind and shown above (first two photos), some individuals have long and others much shorter spikes, which may indicate a gender difference.

Further reading: A Guide to the Beetles of Australia by Hangay and Zborowski.

Jewel Beetles – Buprestidae

2011-05-10T17:52:00.000+08:00

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Jewel Beetles – Buprestidae

Jewel Beetles from the Buprestidae family are also known as Metallic Wood-boring Beetles and are represented in Australia by nearly 80 genera with over 1200 species. They vary in size from 1.5-60 mm (1/16”-2 3/8”) in length (those above were between 1-2 cm or 3/8"-3/4") and whilst the adults feed on foliage, nectar, flowers, bark, etc., the larvae bore into trunks/roots/leaves of plants to leave a characteristic oval shaped hole.

These beetles are usually attractively coloured with various bright markings, of which their family name signifies (buprestidan – bright metallic lustre), but it is the tapering shape of their body coupled with short antennae that determines their classification. Similar looking beetles from other families have longer or club shaped antennae.

Despite their bright colouring, unless you look intently Jewel Beetles mostly go unnoticed, which particularly applies to myself, as I usually only find them when photographing plants of which they commonly pollinate. These beetles enjoy warm sunny weather and reach their greatest diversity in the tropics, but around Esperance are more frequently encountered in the inland mallee region, although the red one above and other species are common along the coast.

Further reading: A Guide to the Beetles of Australia by Hangay and Zborowski.

Slender Ringtail - Austrolestes analis

2011-05-02T18:34:00.001+08:00

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Slender Ringtail - Austrolestes analis

Austrolestes is a member of the Lestidae family along with 10 species that are distributed throughout Australia and commonly known as Ringtails. The Slender Ringtail is found over most near coastal regions in the southern portion of the country, including Tasmania. Around Esperance it is not noticeably common, because from my experience it seldom visits open water to mate and lay eggs, which I presume means they do so towards dawn or dusk and probably hunt at these times too.

During the day I find them well away from water (100-200 metres/yards) perched on Taxandria callistachys a shrub of swampy winter wet areas. Here they remain motionless unless disturbed when then will move a short distance, but if pursued in order to photograph them, will take off to fly a much greater distance and disappear into a mass of vegetation. As additional evidence of their twilight activities, a female was attracted to a house-light when it was quite dark, the only Odonata in my experience to do so.

In the photographs above, there is a single female the rest are male; they are around 3 cm or a little over 1” in length. The males have the blue markings on the abdomen, the females white. On some of the males a strange looking organ is exposed at the base of the abdomen which is normally hidden. This is where the sperm is produced and then transferred to the copulation organ situated at the other end of his abdomen in segment 2, just below the chest area. In order to mate, the male grasps the female’s neck and she lifts and places her genitalia (at the base of her abdomen) to the copulation organ of the male to receive the sperm. This is a commonly seen activity of Damsel and Dragonflies and is known as the wheel position, and although not shown here, it is shown in the right-hand column by clicking 'Insects – Damselflies' or 'Insects – Dragonflies' for a variety of photographic images.

Common Macrotona - Macrotona sp. (probably) M. australis

2011-04-25T17:13:00.000+08:00

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Common Macrotona - Macrotona sp. (probably) M. australis

The Common Macrotona is mainly found in NSW, Victoria, Tasmania and SA, with only a small occurrence in the NW Wheatbelt of the Moora/Mt Magnet area and to have this species now in the Esperance region would link their widely separate distribution locations. However, although this species is on casual observation very similar to Macrotona australis, examination of the genitalia is essential to be positive, hence the uncertainty. There are apparently 7 other described species in this genus, plus 33 undescribed ones.

Locally, the Common Macrotona is very common, found in both calcareous and non-calcareous sandy zones in an open shrubland containing a variety of vegetation, particularly herbaceous species. The coloration of the legs is very distinctive, as is the paraglossae (the wedge shape appendage in the neck region). The females are to 28 mm (1”) in length, whilst the males are recorded to only 18 mm (5/8”) in head/body size. The larger females have pronounced pale yellow stripes running from the head, along either side of the pronotum to join at the wing tips, but all observed males were much less prominently endowed.

My thanks to Dr D Rentz for his assistance, and ‘A Guide to the Australian Grasshoppers and Locusts’ by Rentz, Lewis, Su and Upton.

Common Red-leg - Genus Novum 95, ochracea

2011-04-18T15:52:00.000+08:00

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Common Red-leg - Genus Novum 95, ochracea

Like most grasshoppers, Genus Novum 95, ochracea is part of the large Acrididae family, which includes the insects most people think of as a grasshopper. However to the people who study these animals there are many differences and this species and at least 17 others (16 undescribed) belong in a new genus, hence the temporary Genus Novum 95 classification. This species named ochracea, was probably allotted to a different genus, but is now in the process of being relocated.

When encountered this particular grasshopper can be very common, apparently favouring sandy open spaces even when there is little herbaceous vegetation from which to feed. The ones photographed above were very common in the calcareous tertiary dune system around Esperance, but I have also seen them elsewhere in non-calcareous heathland. They are recorded in the outback regions of Victoria, NSW, Qld, NT, WA and SA, the latter two States also along the coast, except in the higher rainfall districts.

The Common Red-leg Grasshopper is around 2 cm (3/4”) in length and as its name suggests has striking red markings on the inside of the leg. This is a distinctive feature and when combined with the shape of the paraglossae (wedge-like projection in the neck region) separates this species from other similar looking grasshoppers in Genus Novum 95.

My thanks to Dr David Rentz for identification and his (plus Lewis, Su and Upton) book titled A Guide to Australian Grasshoppers and Locusts.

Speedy Micro Katydid - Microtettigonia tachys

2011-04-11T16:10:00.001+08:00

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Speedy Micro Katydid - Microtettigonia tachys

As this species name suggests, these are the smallest of the Katydids from the large and highly diverse Tettigoniidae family. They can be reasonably common around fine stemmed sedge on the edge of swamps or flood plains, but due to their size are rarely seen unless accidentally caught when sweeping with a net. At first capture, thoughts turn to nymphs and with this in mind they are discarded or will themselves leap to freedom, until the tiny ovipositor is spotted to make you realise you are looking at very small adult.

The female of Microtettigonia tachys (excluding the antennae and ovipositor) is around 7 mm or just over ¼” in length, but despite their lack of size, they are excellent jumpers and are lost from view in an instant, rarely to be relocated. Because of this jumping ability, all above individuals are female (being easy to identify), but when the net is opened wide to view a possible smaller male, one jump and they are gone. I thought when producing this post that I did have one, but it turned out to be a nymph of other species, which can be tricky to separate.

These midget katydids are endemic to Australia and currently known from seven species, which are distributed over the southern portion of the country. Microtettigonia tachys is recorded from the heath coastal sand-plain from Mt Ragged to Albany. They are nocturnal and herbivorous, probably feeding on grasses, sedges and other low growing vegetation. Locally adults are found during summer and autumn.

Further reading: ‘A Guide to the Katydids of Australia’ by David Rentz.

Common Pyrgomorph - Monistria discrepans

2011-04-04T19:10:00.000+08:00

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Common Pyrgomorph - Monistria discrepans

The Monistria genus is part of the Pyrgomorphidae grasshopper family, which in Australia contains some highly colourful species sporting bright spots and stripes. Although they will readily hop to escape they are not particularly fast or cover much distance, which means if a predator was intent on catching them they would have little difficulty, particularly as they are often active during the day. However, predation does not seem to a major survival factor, which probably means they are either highly distasteful or poisonous and may reflect the type of vegetation consumed.

Monistria discrepans is called the Common Pyrgomorph, as it is widespread and found in the southern portion of WA and SA, then into northern Victoria, through most of NSW and a substantial region of Queensland. However in the Esperance district, I have only encountered it near the coast and associated with Myoporum insulare. A more locally common Pyrgomorph is Monistria latevittata, the Western Coastal Pyrgomorph (see: http://esperancewildlife.blogspot.com/2010/06/western-coastal-pyrgomorph-monistria.html), which occupies a variety of heathland habitats and is reasonably common.

Monistria latevittata is a little larger than Monistria discrepans, where females are a little over 3 cm (11/4”) in head/body length, although male species are only 1.5 cm (5/8”) . Both species have vivid yellow spots, but this species (Monistria discrepans) the larger spots tend to be neatly arranged down the abdomen and elsewhere. Both species have white spots, but these are generally less common with Monistria discrepans, although make up the main background of Monistria latevittata producing an overall grey appearance. The femur background colours of the largest legs are distinctively different between these species and the easiest way of telling them apart. With Monistria latevittata being pale grey with two black blotches, but with Monistria discrepans the upper central part is coloured brown or black, without blotches. Monistria discrepans has five geological races, so interstate variations are likely.

Monistria maculicornis is also reported to be in the Esperance region, but so far I have not seen it. This species has a considerable number of orange spots (sometimes brilliantly so), giving the grasshopper an overall orange appearance. Forms of other species may also appear orange, but this is due to the background color and not the orange spots. Also with this species, the white stripe that underlines the black eye stripe, extends down to the femur top of both middle legs.

The Paraglossae (throat appendage often extending between the front legs) of Monistria discrepans is quite fat and solid, whereas with Monistria latevittata it is thin and much smaller. All of these grasshoppers prefer light sandy soil, often with bare surrounding ground and seem to have communal areas where a number of males wait for visiting females, so in these parts at the right time of year they can be quite common, but outside these zones difficult to find. The two labelled photographs above show females, whilst the other eight illustrate males.

Further reading: A Guide to Australian Grasshoppers and Locusts, by Rentz, Lewis, Su and Upton.

Mantid Lacewing – Mantispidae sp.

2011-03-28T17:18:00.000+08:00

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Mantid Lacewing – Mantispidae sp.

Lacewings in the Mantispidae family are also known as Mantis Flies and belong to the Order Neuroptera along with Owlflies, Antlions, Brown, Green and Moth Lacewings, of which all are also found in the Esperance region. There are over 40 Australian Mantispidae spp., but around 400 worldwide, most occurring in tropical and subtropical regions. So presumably a limited number are in southern areas, including Esperance. The above is the only Mantid Lacewing I have encountered locally (seen during March) and as they are normally attracted to house lights (which are checked regularly), it would seem that they are most uncommon.

These lacewings have specially modified front legs that are formed and used in a similar way to the forelegs of Praying Mantids from the Mantodea order, which are used to capture and hold small prey. Regarding the photographed individual above, it has lost one of its grasping claws that are normally paired. It was a little over 2 cm (nearly 1”) in head/body length and strongly attracted to the house lights despite several attempts to get it to pose on a better photographic background.

Mantispidae spp. are easy to recognise, even when the claws are retracted as the neck is very long, plus the glossy transparent wings are set way back (like mantids) to permit operation of the raptorial claws. They are very interesting looking insects and initially you must think hard as to whether it is a mantis or a lacewing, but the transparent wings give it away.

The larvae of mantid flies have an unusual evolutionary adaptation by parasitising spider eggs. They will either burrow directly into a spider’s egg-sac, or hitch a ride until the female spider constructs the sac and enter it that way. The larvae will then feed on the eggs via a piercing/sucking tube formed by modified mouthparts.

Aurora Bluebell - Ischnura aurora

2011-03-22T17:54:00.000+08:00

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Aurora Bluebell - Ischnura aurora

There are only three Australian Ischnura species and all occur overseas with Ischnura aurora the most widespread, being recorded throughout Australia, India, to our north, plus many Pacific Islands. However they are not overly common in the Esperance region and to date I have only seen them at the mouth of Stockyard Creek, 14 km (8.5 miles) east of Esperance.

Ischnura belongs to the Coenagrionidae family that is only represented in Western Australia by three other species: Ischnura heterosticta, the Common Bluetail that I have not yet encountered, plus Austroagrion cyane (South-western Billabongfly) and Xanthagrion erythroneurum (Red and Blue Damsel), both of which are detailed here. Male damselflies in this family are often strikingly coloured in reds, blues and contrasting black.

The Aurora Bluebell is a tiny damselfly, being between 1.5-2 cm (3/4”) in length and very slender. As they tend to perch for long periods they are very difficult to spot unless disturbed, this includes the brightly coloured male. They do not appear to be strong fliers, which is surprising considering their distribution, but move slowly and deliberately rather like a large mosquito. The greenish coloration of the female makes her particularly difficult to spot as she just disappears amongst similar coloured foliage.

I have included a habitat shot where I found this damselfly; this held approximately 20 or so individuals in an area 40 x 20 metres/yards on a bend near the edge of the creek. They mainly spend their time on the round-leaf sedge or the couch-like grass, but as the sea is only a single low dune (200 metres/yards) away, it could become very windy. At these times, they can shelter behind those larger Melaleuca shrubs that have small sheltered openings on the far side also containing their preferred grass and sedge.

Hemisaga lunodonta - South Coast Sluggish Katydid

2011-03-17T17:27:00.001+08:00

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Hemisaga lunodonta - South Coast Sluggish Katydid

Hemisaga lunodonta is a Katydid and therefore a member of the large Tettigonioidea family. It is a family with many subfamilies, of which Austrosaginae holds the Sluggish Katydids that are further divided into five genera. Although not difficult to separate species, they are to casual observation easily mistaken for each other, or even non-related Metaballus species, a predatory group (see http://esperancewildlife.blogspot.com/2009/08/marauding-katydid-metaballus-species.html).

The South Coast Sluggish Katydid can be distinguished from others, by its strong abdominal stripes and tubercles (small bumps) on the pronotum (top shield behind the head). There are other differences, but they are difficult to illustrate here. However the reference book ‘Tettigoniidae of Australia’ Volume 2 by Dr. David Rentz will answer most questions that are likely to be asked.

This species is recorded from the Nullarbor to the Stirling Range, making Esperance central to its distribution, however it is only recorded from a few coastal and near coastal locations, so is not particularly well known. The above were photographed from the outlet of Stockyard Creek (mostly blocked by a sandbar and only open after heavy rain), which is approximately 14 km (8.5 miles) east of Esperance.

The creek at this location has a narrow partly marshy section that is vegetated by round-leaf sedges on which Hemisaga lunodonta feeds (probably flowers and immature seeds), and only in this habitat have I seen this species. On most occasions I have visited at least one has been found, which likely indicates a healthy local population that probably extends further up the creek, although this area is inaccessible to anyone on foot. The surrounding dunes comprise dry calcareous sand, which are stabilised a little inland.

The first time I encountered these Katydids was when I was wading along the edge of the creek, checking out the local dragon and damselfly species. Three Katydids no more than 30 cm (12”) apart, were seemingly gesturing to me by waving their legs about from the top of the sedge and saying, hello, hello, hello as if rejoicing in the wonderment of life and keen to show it. However, I think their enthusiasm may have been abruptly cut short when the local White Faced Heron whose footprints I was following happened along next and no doubt also keen to sample life’s simple pleasures.

There is little gender size difference between adult Hemisaga lunodonta katydids, with both being around 3.5 cm (13/8") in head/body length, but the female has a very straight ovipositor also around 3.5 cm, which is probably used to lay her eggs deep in the sandy soil. The lifespan of Hemisaga lunodonta spans the warmer months of the year from late spring to autumn, that is if they don’t get eaten first. Although in their defence, they are well camouflaged as the in-situ photo above shows, because their strong white lines blend perfectly into their round stemmed habitat, so unless they move and catch the eye, are easily overlooked.

Elephantodeta nobilis – Noble Bush Katydid

2011-03-10T17:06:00.001+08:00

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Elephantodeta nobilis – Noble Bush Katydid

Elephantodeta nobilis is a Katydid from the Tettigoniidae family and belongs to a group of similar looking large green species from several genera in the Phaneropterinae Subfamily. The Elephantodeta genus species are also known as Hump-backed Katydids and comprise two described species and apparently a number of undescribed ones. They are noted for living close to the ground and in dry habitats.

Locally, the Noble Bush Katydid although not common, is regularly seen during December and January, but it then either moves elsewhere or becomes increasingly secretive. It is usually active at night, but can be happened upon during the day and unless resting on a broad leaf plant, is quite obvious and I would imagine of great interest to birds. So maybe the successful Katydids that survive into autumn are at all times more discrete.

The head/body length of this species is around 3 cm (11/4”) in length, the wings extend another 2 cm or so, giving an overall length (excluding antennae) of 5 cm or 2”. The female’s ovipositor is strongly curved and wide and thought to be used to insert their eggs via cracks, under the bark of food plants.

For more information about this and other species, please refer to ‘A Guide to the Katydids of Australia’ by David Rentz.

Sacred Kingfisher – Todiramphus sanctus

2011-03-04T17:42:00.001+08:00

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Sacred Kingfisher – Todiramphus sanctus

In the Esperance region, the Sacred Kingfisher is a spring to autumn migrant, returning to Northern Australia, New Guinea and tropical islands for winter. Locally in spring, you are suddenly made aware of their presence by their loud distinctive four-note call to establish territory and find a mate. Sacred Kingfishers nest in tree hollows or tunnel into steep sandy banks and as they are relatively small (to 23 cm or 9” total length), they do not need large nesting holes, so can usually find a suitable hollow not occupied by feral bees who would find their hollow too small to occupy.

The Kingfisher above is a juvenile (adults do not have the brown bars on the chest and wings) and crashed with a great thud into my window, knocking itself out. It revived when picked up but was very groggy and made no attempt to escape; not wishing to miss an opportunity (locally these birds are not easy to approach) I took several photos. Afterwards I placed the still groggy bird in a shady spot on a wooden chair rail, where it remained for over an hour before flying away. However it would have quite a headache, although with the force of impact it was lucky it did not break its neck.

Despite the popular concept of Kingfishers hunting fish in aquatic environments, I can say that locally they would quickly get very hungry as permanent water, let alone freshwater fish are quite rare, therefore they must rely on small lizards and invertebrates for sustenance. As an additional observation, the wing and back feathers change from blue to turquoise, depending whether the bird is in the sun or shade, or the angle of light.

In WA the common Laughing Kookaburra does not occur naturally, but via introductions it is now firmly entrenched in the SW of the State to take advantage of the tall forests and larger tree hollows in which to breed. Because of the shortage of large old trees in the Esperance region, it is unlikely they will colonise here to any extent. So hopefully the Scared Kingfisher will continue to be the only local Kingfisher species, even if only a visitor.

Western Pygmyfly - Nannophya occidentalis

2011-02-28T18:13:00.000+08:00

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Western Pygmyfly - Nannophya occidentalis

Nannophya occidentalis is a member of the Libellulidae family that includes the Percher Dragonflies, of which the males of several species are also coloured bright red. The Western Pygmyfly is however much smaller, with males being around 2 cm (3/4”) in length and the females smaller again. Despite its small stature, the male stands out brightly by it iridescent red abdomen that literally glows. The female is a not an unattractive orange brown, but pales in comparison.

This dragonfly favours shallow permanently inundated freshwater swamps, where it can occur in large numbers. Competing males often take up positions within a few feet of each other, where they perch for lengthy periods whilst waiting for visiting females, who like many of this gender spend much of their time well away from the water and male harassment.

The Western Pygmyfly only occurs in southwestern near coastal regions of WA, but a similar looking species Nannophya dalei the Eastern Pygmyfly, can be found in much the same habitat from SA to northern NSW. Despite their smaller size, which immediately distinguishes them from other Perching Dragonflies, both Eastern and Western Pygmyflies have on top of the abdomen a dark mid-dorsal stripe. With the Eastern male, segments 1-3 and sometimes more are marked, whilst the Western species only the first and rarely the second segment are marked.

Blue Skimmer - Orthetrum caledonicum

2011-02-24T15:12:00.003+08:00

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Blue Skimmer - Orthetrum caledonicum

Skimmer dragonflies belong to the Libellulidae family, with Orthetrum caledonicum occurring Australia wide and probably the most common. It can frequently be seen around Esperance on the edge of almost any creek or pondage, or at least the male dragonfly can. The females from my observations only visit to breed and rarely stay long, which may be the result of intense male interest.

Usually several males will take up positions around a waterway, where they spend a fair amount of their time perched on the ground or low vegetation near the waters edge. Other males that cross into these areas are promptly escorted out, so naturally with such strongly guarded territories any visiting female is vigorously pursued. After mating the female may check out the aquatic prospects for her offspring, but will not stay long and move away until she has the need to deposit her eggs.

The females I have observed, fly without the male around the edge of the pool and periodically dip their tail into the water, presumably to drop an egg, again she does not stay long and soon moves away from the water. I would imagine this egg laying activity would be repeated during the day until she decides to go elsewhere. So in order to see the females, you need to be either very lucky by being in the right place at the right time, or copy the male’s example and perch quietly nearby and wait patently.

There is a similar dragonfly also recorded for the Esperance region, but I have not seen it locally. It is the Black-headed Skimmer, Crocothemis nigrifrons and like its name suggests is much darker around the head and synthorax; the abdomen although also powder blue, is a deeper shade. However different wing venation is diagnostic between species, but these cannot be illustrated here as detailed diagrams are required to show variation.

Goniaea opomaloides - Mimetic Gumleaf Grasshopper

2011-02-11T17:12:00.001+08:00

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Goniaea opomaloides - Mimetic Gumleaf Grasshopper

Goniaea is a small genus (less than 10 species) of Gumleaf Grasshoppers and belongs to the large Acrididae grasshopper family. There are at least 2 species in the Esperance region including this one, plus another a little further north. These two are easily separated from this species by their strongly arched pronotum (the upper shield between the head and abdomen), whereas Goniaea opomaloides is relatively flat. For details of Goniaea vocans the similar local Gumleaf Grasshopper, see post under that name labelled ‘Insects - Grasshopper - Gumleaf ' in the lower right-hand column.

Locally Goniaea opomaloides can also be confused with Peakesia brunnea the Grey Peakesia, but the paraglossae (the projection below the chin) is peg-like in that species and not chisel shaped as with the Mimetic Gumleaf Grasshopper. For details of Peakesia brunnea a similar local Grasshopper, see post under that name labelled ‘Insects - Grasshopper – Grey Peakesia’ in the lower right-hand column.

With this Gumleaf species, there is a large size difference between sexes with females growing to 4.5 cm (nearly 2”) and males to only 3 cm (little over 1”) in length (Individuals shown above are female). Although not overly common, these grasshoppers can be found under Acacia and Eucalyptus spp. and once seen are relatively easy to approach, relying on their effective cryptic colouration to remain hidden. They are recorded across the southern part of Australia from Geraldton WA to Rockhampton Qld.

Further reading:
A Guide to Australian Grasshoppers and Locusts by Rentz, Lewis, Su and Upton.

Peakesia brunnea - Grey Peakesia

2011-02-03T17:12:00.000+08:00

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Peakesia brunnea - Grey Peakesia

Peakesia brunnea is another grasshopper from the large and highly diverse Acrididae family. It is a robust looking insect with females over 3 cm (11/4”) in length (males are smaller) and noticeable by their rounded contours, particularly the head profile. It is recorded from the SW of WA and surprisingly also in the Eastern States from Canberra to the North of Sydney.

Around Esperance it is found in low growing open heath containing a variety of sedge species of which it seems to favour. Locally there is a similar looking species, the Mimetic Gumleaf Grasshopper, Goniaea opomaloides, but Peakesia brunnea is smaller and has distinctive red lower legs, also the paraglossae (the projection below the chin) is peg-like, whereas with G. opomaloides it is chisel shaped.

The Grey Peakesia is obviously a local species, so will be around from spring to autumn, but I have only encountered them during the summer months. This may be because the nymphs have then matured to adults and less likely to be confused with other grasshopper young that are around during spring.

Psedna nana - Variable Psedna

2011-01-18T19:58:00.002+08:00

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Psedna nana - Variable Psedna

These unusual grasshoppers belong to the Pyrgomorphidae family, which in Australia has 20-30 species that are quite unlike most others. Currently there are three Australian Psedna species, but only one in WA restricted to the SW region from Kalbarri (north of Perth) around the coast and near coastal districts to Israelite Bay (east of Esperance). It has also been recorded SE of Adelaide and inland NSW.

Although not widespread, Psedna nana can be locally common in low lying winter wet areas, where it lives on round leaf sedges. The Variable Psedna is well suited to this environment by being slender like the sedge and having four short front legs to grip them. They are quite agile and to outwit predators, will leap a metre or two, or move to the opposite side of the stem and if necessarily progressively move around it to avoid detection.

There is another similar looking grasshopper in the same family, but from the Propsednura genus, which overlaps P. nana in the Esperance region, but I have only encountered this species in dry heath. Nevertheless, swampy regions often abut heathland, so between Perth and Esperance, extra care should be taken particularly with juveniles. Locally the colours of the mature Psedna nana are reasonably consistent, but juveniles can differ radically.

To separate Propsednura eyrei from Psedna nana you must examine the paraglossae, which is tongue like at the base of the mouth and between the front pair of legs. As can be seen with Psedna nana, it is broad at the top and the base does not extend over the breastplate. Whereas with Propsednura eyrei, it is peg like with a narrow top and the base overlaps the breastplate.

The females of Psedna nana grow to 45 mm (nearly 2”) in length, but the mature male to only 32 mm or 11/4” (excluding antennae). Both are wingless or have tiny and totally ineffectual ones that require close examination to even see. Locally, I have seen mating couples during December/January, when coincidentally most juveniles are very small, making identification much easier, whereas later many mature grasshoppers have disappeared, plus juveniles are larger and more common, making identification more complex. However, habitat type and paraglossae details should greatly assist in this regard.

'A Guide to Australian Grasshoppers and Locusts' by Rentz, Lewis, Su and Upton is an invaluable guide for any persons interested in these insects.

Marbled Xenica - Geitoneura klugii

2010-12-16T18:23:00.000+08:00

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Marbled Xenica - Geitoneura klugii

The Marbled Xenica belongs to the Nymphalidae family, which are attractively coloured butterflies of complex brown, orange and black patterns. Another local and very common Nymphalidae species is the Australian Painted Lady Vanessa kershawi (see post under that name in the right hand column), which is similarly coloured, but noticeably much larger and prefers open environments.

Geitoneura klugii is to be found around Esperance in sheltered openings under or between trees and large shrubs, where ground vegetation is low and open. Here the male takes up a territory and flits about approximately a metre (3’) in elevation, landing periodically on the ground or low vegetation for lengthy periods. In this position he rests with his wings closed, enabling his coloration to blend imperceptivity into the leaf-litter. Occasionally he will open his wings as a possible sign to other males that the territory is taken, or to attract passing females.

The females are more restless and when they do land, keep their wings closed for some time, only opening them for a quick flash. They will check out the males territory, with the male keeping close contact and if they don’t like what they see, will move on, often flying higher than a metre to do so.

Males and females are of different sizes with the female larger to over 4 cm (little over 11/2”) wingspan, whilst the male is a little less than 4 cm. Although this does not sound like a big deal, their sizes are visually quite distinct. There are also differences in their wing pattern, the most obvious being the male having an additional solid bar in the centre of the upper wing, which in live (unpinned) specimens runs towards the abdomen. I should add that all my captures are released unharmed.

Pollanisus sp. – Forester Moth

2010-10-23T20:05:00.001+08:00

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Pollanisus sp. – Forester Moth

Forester Moths are small moths, with bright metallic coloration that will flash when viewed from certain angles. They are mainly active during the day and probably use their colours to warn predators like birds of their poisonous nature, which as adults they produce cyanide especially for this purpose. Pollanisus is the largest genus in the family Zygaenidae, with 20 described species (Australian Faunal Directory) that when combined with 9 other family genera currently bring the total number to 43, although many others remain undescribed.

Despite being active during the day, they can also be attracted to light at night, where due to their small size (5-8 mm (1/4”) in head/body length, they may be more easily spotted. In WA there are 4 known Pollanisus species: P. acharon, P. cupreus, P. empyrea and P. nielseni, so presumably the photos above would illustrate one or more of these species.

These moths are not common, but will turn up on certain warm, calm nights between September and April; mostly they visit in ones and twos, but occasionally over a dozen will appear. And being so spectacularly coloured are always a welcome sight.

Their larvae apparently show a preference for Hibbertia spp. (Guinea Flowers) that are very common in the Esperance district in both number and diversity. The caterpillars are hairy and feed only on the upper leaf surface to leave characteristic tracks (Zborowski and Edwards – A Guide to Australian Moths).

Emu – Dromaius novaehollandiae

2010-09-04T18:51:00.000+08:00

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Emu – Dromaius novaehollandiae

There is very little point in trying to sneak up on an Emu as they are very alert and have far better eyesight than any human. So if you want to get closer and you are in an area where they are not used to people, play on their curiosity and attract them to you. To do this, do not look directly at the bird, but quietly and without sudden movement, do something daft, like holding one hand in the air like an emu and peck around the ground, plus if you can ruffle your feathers that is an added bonus. Usually, slowly but surely they will come within a few metres to checkout this weird creature.

Emus can run very fast and keep it up for several kilometres, I have clocked them effortlessly running through low bush at over 45 km (28 miles) an hour and they could go even faster if required. As their running ability is their main means of avoiding trouble, they tend to keep to reasonably open country, particularly when with chicks. These days with less frequent burning (as practised by pre-European aboriginals), heathland tends to get too thick for fast running, so around the Esperance coastal regions they mostly breed and raise their young in the stabilised (calcareous) tertiary dunes, where low dryland sedges dominate to keep the environment more open. The same applies to mallee regions where lower rainfall limits shrub growth and dominance.

Another reason the dunes are favoured is because of the high number of heath species (Ericaceae, particularly Acrotriche and Leucopogon), which grow there. These small shrubs produce fleshy berries that are consumed in great numbers and by so doing, the emus spread the seeds widely; with Acrotriche they will also eat the clusters of small green flowers that are fleshy and sweet with nectar.

An interesting feature of Emus is their feathers, which produce two from the one shaft. The only advantage for this that comes to mind is the greater number of plumes for any given area, which would provide greater insulation and possibly hinder ancient predators (humans are currently their only predator, although small chicks are sought by many both native and introduced). The feathers can grow to 45 cm (18”) in length and are very soft as they do not have the little hooks, which lock other birds feathers together to enable flight, but as the emu is totally land bound, they have no need of them.

As most will know, it is the male bird that raises the chicks, initially sitting on the eggs, then protecting them until they reach maturity. It is obviously a difficult occupation and experience is required to be successful, as many young breeding males will lose to predators, all or most of their brood, whereas older males will often raise 3-5 chicks.

Emus can grow to 2 metres in height and have very powerful legs that have large strong claws, which can deliver a fatal blow to predators, but fortunately they fear people so rarely attack humans, although best not to stress a bird with small chicks. Emus that are familiar with people can be very dangerous and unless you are very sure of their demeanour, great care should be taken. On one occasion I was talking to a zookeeper who had a single emu behind a 5 foot high wire fence. I had my back to the bird who was some distance away, when suddenly I heard this galloping, but before I could turn around, it felled me with a single blow to my neck with its beak. As I was on the ground, it then tried to kick me, but the wire fence stopped it, so I was lucky as it could have been very nasty. So beware of emus that are familiar with people, but enjoy the antics of wild ones!

Anamesia polyzona - White-banded Cockroach

2010-08-26T18:28:00.000+08:00

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Anamesia polyzona - White-banded Cockroach

The Anamesia genus with 11 species (Australian Faunal Directory) is a member of the Blattidae family and the Polyzosteriinae subfamily, which are well represented in the Esperance district. This particular species was encountered in the Mt Buraminya mallee region (140 km or 85 miles) NE of Esperance, when I stopped for lunch under a clump of eucalypts on the edge of an open plain. These plains are created by a shallow fine sand/clay over a very hard limestone, thereby restricting root penetration and development of trees and large shrubs.

Unfortunately the cockroach is not well focused, as it was very fast and did not stop moving until it permanently disappeared under a pile of bark, twigs and leaves. Nevertheless it matches well with a couple of illustrations from the WA Dept of Agriculture and the CSIRO’s What Bug its That? There is only one other Anamesia species listed for the SW coastal region of WA, called A. frenchii, but I cannot find any worthwhile description of it, but it seems unlikely to also match the authoritative photographs of Anamesia polyzona.

I have called this species the White-banded Cockroach to make it easier to remember and separate from the other cockroaches listed, which have also been given common names. However, best not to quote them to an entomologist or cockroach enthusiast, as you are likely to get a very puzzled look in return.

Anamesia polyzona is between 2-3 cm (1”) in head/body length and recorded as being diurnal (active during the day). And besides ducking for cover under eucalypt debris, they are also known to hide under sand and to sunbathe. The one photographed above was active at the end of August, when days are pleasantly warm and sunny, but nights chilly (around zero degrees Centigrade).

Blattidae sp. - Dorsal-striped Cockroach

2010-08-17T11:08:00.000+08:00

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Blattidae sp. - Dorsal-striped Cockroach

This is another mallee cockroach that was found near Mt Buraminya 130 km (80 miles) NE of Esperance, where encountered under eucalypt litter in a fine sand/clay soil over limestone. I had stopped for lunch and whilst doing so, this guy appeared, so not sure if it is more active during the day or at night, it was however quite fast, dashing from cover to cover.

The cockroach was around 2 cm (nearly 1”) in head/body length and as only one was seen, I was unable to ascertain other details or if it was locally common. The area has a good tree cover, with small Melaleuca and other shrubby species making up the lower story; median rainfall is around 40 cm (16”) per annum, with hot dry summers.

Drymaplaneta heydeniana - Golden Cockroach

2010-08-05T12:52:00.002+08:00

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Drymaplaneta heydeniana - Golden Cockroach

This species has also been known as Cutilia heydeniana (amongst others) and is another member of the Blattidae family. Locally in sandy Banksia heath, it does not seem to be common unless not attracted to house lights, whatever the case I have rarely encountered it.

To quickly separate it from other local species, I have called it the Golden Cockroach, but the pale margin extending the full length down either side and boarded by a thin dark band are distinctive features. The photographed female was over 2 cm (almost 1”) in head/body length and appeared at night during early February, so Drymaplaneta heydeniana is apparently still active during the hotter time of the year.

For additional details about Blattidae cockroaches, please refer to ‘Insects – Cockroaches’ in the right-hand column.

Update December 2010
Two photographs added

Platyzosteria sp. - Tattooed Cockroach

2010-07-31T18:15:00.000+08:00

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Platyzosteria sp. - Tattooed Cockroach

The Tattooed Cockroach is a most unusual species and differs remarkably from others in the Esperance region. It is quite small being a little over 1 cm (1/2”) in head/body length and you would not be amiss to consider it a juvenile of one of the larger species, but the sighting of the odd shaped ootheca (egg case) would soon dispel that notion. The shape of the ootheca above is not restricted to the photographed individual, as I have a photo of another female with an identical one.

However, it is the tattoo-like markings on the back that are quite extraordinary and which are repeated on all individuals encountered. How such an elaborate patten could originate and for what reason is somewhat baffling, particularly when so artistically produced. I find it another little wonder that makes nature observation so rewarding.

This little gem of a cockroach, apart being found on the ground, is often encountered at night, feeding on fresh Banksia blooms at some height. The Tattooed Cockroach is not especially common in the Esperance Banksia heathland, but is regularly seen during the cooler months, although being small it would easily be overlooked in less contrasting habitats.

Platyzosteria sp. - Orange-rump Cockroach

2010-07-29T15:00:00.000+08:00

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Platyzosteria sp. - Orange-rump Cockroach

I have called this member of the Blattidae family the Orange-rump Cockroach, simply to distinguish it from other Platyzosteria species that I am unable to identify. It is also possible that it is an undescribed species, which with invertebrates, especially in the remoter parts of the Esperance region is quite feasible.

This attractive cockroach was encountered at night in mallee habitat (fine sand/clay over limestone) on the edge of an old gravel quarry (used for road construction), 100 km (62 miles) NW of Esperance, off the Neds Corner Road Extension. It was a little over 2 cm (1”) in head/body length and had just emerged from its shelter in a near horizontal hole on a steep slope.

If anyone can identify this and other cockroach species, or has photographs of a similar looking one, would you please email me at wa@wn.com.au so the details can be added for future reference.

Calolampra fraserensis - Trilobite Cockroach

2010-07-22T18:13:00.000+08:00

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Calolampra fraserensis - Trilobite Cockroach

The genus Calolampra is one of 15 in the Blaberidae family, which according to the Australian Faunal Directory has a total of 87 species. However only three are listed for the southern coastal district of Western Australia, with the vast majority found in the Eastern States, particularly in Queensland and northern NSW. This family of roaches are generally flat and have shorter legs than those in other families and due to their segments and rounded shape are commonly known as Trilobites after a similar looking marine arthropod that went extinct 250 million years ago.

Some cockroaches in the Blaberidae family are amongst the largest, or at least the heaviest and live in burrows underground. Calolampra fraserensis also lives in the soil or under litter, but do not construct complex tunnels, although livable spaces are made where they will cohabit with other family members.

Despite some Blaberidae being completely wingless, the males of most species do have wings (females remaining wingless), to no doubt enable them to migrate to other colonies thereby spreading their genes and so reducing the risk of inbreeding. Mature insects of the above species are a little over 2 cm (3/4”) in head/body length and although I would not class them as being common, are still well represented in the Esperance region, but are seldom encountered, presumably remaining close to home.

Platyzosteria spatiosa - Bronze Cockroach

2010-07-16T15:38:00.000+08:00

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Platyzosteria spatiosa - Bronze Cockroach

Platyzosteria spatiosa is a member of Blattidae, the largest cockroach family with over 200 Australian species, which are generally known as Bush Cockroaches. The genus Platyzosteria has been further divided into 3 subgenera with a total of 92 species (Australian Faunal Directory). I have called this species ‘Bronze Cockroach’ as it clearly defines the one around Esperance, which is otherwise very similar to the Black Cockroach (see right hand column for details). However there are a number of bronze coloured cockroaches around Australia, with this species also occurring in western SA.

Care must be taken when viewing Platyzosteria spatiosa at night as some individuals are very dark and you must direct the light in the right direction to distinguish it from the more common local Black Cockroach, which is much the same size, around 3-4 cm (11/2”) in length. In the heathland around Esperance the Bronze Cockroach would be the second most common species (after the Black) and is often encountered.

Copulating cockroaches are rarely seen locally, so the couple above was an excellent sighting. The timing of this event was August, probably permitting the young to hatch before the onslaught of a hot/dry summer, when this species in particular becomes very scarce. Platyzosteria spatiosa are very bush orientated and do not invade houses, not even accidentally, although they can sometimes be found wandering around outside where they feed on slowly (not mushie) decaying vegetation.

Platyzosteria sp. - Black Cockroach

2010-07-13T15:27:00.003+08:00

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Platyzosteria sp. - Black Cockroach

Although this Black Cockroach has long been a member of the Blattidae family, the same thing cannot be said for its genus, as some species have been moved around 5 or more times. Mostly they have retained their species name, but with this one known as Cutilia nitida 100 years ago, have in more recent years disappeared off the radar and despite extensive searches I have been unable to find it again. It seems you need to be very well acquainted with cockroach taxonomy to appreciate what has been happening with them.

However, the Black Cockroach around Esperance is very common, particularly in sandy heath. They only come out at night and although far from being in plague proportions, are often the only invertebrate encountered. Nevertheless, they are an important food source for many animals, particularly frogs, which in turn provide sustenance for other predators like reptiles, so locally these cockroaches are a key feature in the heathland ecosystem.

Occasionally they do enter houses, but are not dirty or become a pest; they just go about their business feeding on dry, slowly decaying organic matter (detritus). In the bush they are mostly found on dead vegetation from near ground level to high in trees or tall shrubs, where they sometimes dine on live flowers.

Shown above is a female carrying her egg case (ootheca), which she will hold for some time before dropping it somewhere, hopefully for the young to hatch and mature, but this they do without any parental assistance. Also shown is a moulting Black Cockroach, which initially is not only soft and very vulnerable, but pale and very noticeable, requiring a safe location to perform this function and still survive. A mature cockroach is quite robust and around 4 cm (13/4") in head/body length.

Drymaplaneta species – Blattidae - White-edged Cockroach

2010-07-06T16:09:00.002+08:00

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Drymaplaneta species – Blattidae - White-edged Cockroach

Blattidae is the largest of the Australian cockroach families and contains many of the colourful wingless bush cockroaches, as well as a couple of introduced pest species (American and Asian) that have wings and like to cohabit with people. Most Australian species are quite harmless having clean eating habits (so not disease carriers) and rarely enter houses, although a similar looking cockroach Drymaplaneta communis (restricted to the Eastern States), has apparently become very numerous in Sydney and Melbourne and will enter houses, but is quite harmless.

The Drymaplaneta genus and most of its species have previously been placed in the Cutilia and Methana genera, and of the six Australian Drymaplaneta species (Australian Faunal Directory), five are recorded for the SW of Western Australia, so all could be in the Esperance region. I have excluded Drymaplaneta semivitta that is apparently a common and widespread species despite it looking very similar, as the lower hind legs (tibiae) are expanded in that species, but not in those above, although I lack sufficient information to be certain.

The Drymaplaneta species above is not particularly common around Esperance, although odd ones come and go. Their preferred habitat is under loose bark, which is not overly abundant in heathland and may reflect its local absence, but they could be more common in low-lying areas where there are more eucalypts, but being wingless, a hundred metres/yards can be quite a walk if you are only 3 cm (little over 1”) in length.

Hippotion scrofa - Hawk Moth

2010-07-01T18:23:00.001+08:00

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Hippotion scrofa - Hawk Moth

Hark Moths belong to the Sphingidae family and in Australia there are 65 recorded species (Australian Museum), with most occurring in tropical and sub-tropical forested zones where often common. However I have only seen a single species and to date, only a single moth as shown above, so unless secretive, they are far from being common in the southeast of Western Australia, although probably more so in the forested southwest.

Hawk Moths are nectar feeders and like humming-birds, usually hover over flowers when feeding and are credited with the pollination of many plants as they probe tubular flowers with their long proboscis. The rapid wing movements required to hover indicates their relative physical strength and flying capability, which when fuelled with nectar can be considerable.

Hippotion scrofa is found over much of Australia and even overseas making it one of the most widespread of moths. The one above was encountered near Esperance on 24th December, which was a nice Christmas present, but probably coincides with its feeding habits. Like other Hawk Moths, it was a sleek impressive looking insect a little over 3 cm (11/4”) in head/body length.

Western Coastal Pyrgomorph - Monistria latevittata

2010-06-28T17:42:00.001+08:00

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Western Coastal Pyrgomorph - Monistria latevittata

Monistria latevittata belongs to the Pyrgomorphidae family and locally would be the most common of these unusual grasshoppers. Although widespread, they are not often encountered, probably because they are not particularly active, slowly moving about and relying on their cryptic coloration for their defence, however they are effective jumpers if required.

This species prefers sandy regions with heathland vegetation upon which it feeds and is known to occur from the north of Israelite Bay (east of Esperance) to the north of Perth, but excluding the more forested SW corner of the State. It differs from other Monistria species by being a light grey or brown with small orange spots. Monistria maculicornis is similar, but has a distinctive orange instead of a grey, brown coloration. Monistria discrepans is also grey, but with larger orange spots and Monistria consobrina has no facial white stripe. There are other differences, but these are less obvious.

A characteristic of Pyrgomorphs is the males are much smaller than the females and are often found riding jockey style on their backs. This does not mean they are currently mating, but the male taking up the mating position to stop other males from mating with her. Most of these grasshoppers have tiny wings that are not capable of flight, but in all populations a small percentage do have fully developed wings that are flight capable. Probably this ensures some individuals can escape a catastrophe (fire, flood, etc), or permit the mixing of genes with other sedentary colonies.

The females are around 3 cm (little over 1”) in head/body length and can be encountered at most times of the year. Both males and females have concealed, small bright red wings (remains of inner wings) that are fluttered with the outer ones as a scare tactic to deter predators.

My thanks to Dr David Rentz for identification.

Shrubland Pale-flecked Morethia - Morethia obscura

2010-06-24T16:28:00.000+08:00

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Shrubland Pale-flecked Morethia - Morethia obscura

Morethia obscura is one of the Flecked Skinks from the Scincidae family. It is reasonably common in the Esperance sandy heath region and in addition, distributed throughout the wheatbelt and across the Nullarbor, through southern SA and into the western areas of NSW and Victoria. However, its appearance varies considerably over its range from a lizard with few to no dorsal flecks, to extensive makings as the Esperance form above displays.

Besides the distinctive flecks, it can also be identified by the scales on its head and its five fingers and toes. The diamond shaped scale in the centre of the head and between the eyes, is with this species the largest scale with no corners cleaved off by a small separate scale. Also there are two small scales immediately above each non-blinking eye, whereas most other similar looking skinks have only one.

The Shrubland Pale-flecked Morethia grows to 14 cm (nearly 6”) in overall length and can be very fast making it difficult to photograph. The one above fell into a pit-trap and had dug itself a cosy underground shelter, so finding them in the first place can also be a problem, although they will seek shelter under logs or anything capable of concealment. Normally they stay close to vegetation, rarely venturing into the open except to dash to other cover.

These fast moving skinks are excellent hunters and use their speed to catch small grasshoppers, crickets, cockroaches and other invertebrates. Like most of the smaller skinks, they lay clutches of eggs in loose sand or undercover that are left without further parental assistance.

Donuca spectabilis – Noctuidae

2010-06-18T17:02:00.001+08:00

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Donuca spectabilis – Noctuidae

This moth as the name suggests is quite spectacular with its vivid markings and orange body; the head/body length is around 3 cm (little over 1”) and can be seen locally during December and January. Apparently Donuca spectabilis is found throughout Australia (except Tasmania), although all references state the larvae feeds on the Golden Wreath Wattle, Acacia saligna, which many would know is a native of Western Australia, although widely planted as an ornamental and stock fodder tree. So if A. saligna is the only foodplant for the larvae, then presumedly Donuca spectabilis originated in WA. This group of moths is currently under review and this question hopefully will be resolved.

Noctuidae is a large moth family and well represented in Australia. The Australian Faunal Directory lists 428 genera with 1234 species (many being endemic), plus there are numbers of undescribed species. The genus Donuca currently has 6 species. As Acacia saligna (larvae food plant) is particularly common around Esperance, you would expect this moth to be also common, but if it is, then they are not attracted to house lights, as unfortunately only a few moths visit me each year. Perhaps the calcareous coastal belt where this wattle can be rampant, produces higher moth numbers than in non-calcareous heathland.

Endoxyla didymoplaca – Goat Moth

2010-06-15T16:41:00.000+08:00

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Endoxyla didymoplaca – Goat Moth

The CSIRO Entomology - Australian Moths Online website has two collections of this moth, both within 15 km (9 miles) north of Esperance, I have encountered it only once, 20 km to the east of the township, so either it is not attracted to lights or is uncommon! To the north of Esperance, at least as far as Salmon Gums (100 km or 62 miles) it has been extensively cleared for agriculture, although after 50 km to the east it is still in its original state, as is much of the coastal zone. This clearance would undoubtedly affect the viability of this species, should its distribution be central to it. The only other alternative, would be if this species main habitat is the mallee environment and these collections (including my own) represent its most southerly distribution.

All three occurrences were in November and similar to the other local Goat Moth, Endoxyla bipustulatus that was recently posted here (see top right-hand column ‘Insects – Moths’ or bottom right-hand column ‘Insects – Moths – Goat Moth 1’). This previous post contains additional information on this group of moths.

The moth photographed above was around 3 cm (little over 1”) in head/body length. If encountered again, I shall post details here.

Endoxyla bipustulatus – Goat Moth

2010-06-13T18:53:00.000+08:00

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Endoxyla bipustulatus – Goat Moth

Endoxyla is a member of the family Cossidae, which are renown for their large size and considerable weight. The heaviest moth in the world could well be our Endoxyla macleayi from NSW and southern Queensland, which apparently has an abdomen the size of a small banana, but unfortunately is not often encountered.

These large moths are also called Wood Moths or Carpenter Moths as their larvae bore into eucalypt trunks, where they can do considerable damage if the tree is required for timber; or they will burrow into the roots of certain acacias, particularly in central Australia. The grubs that are the size of your little finger or bigger, are generally known as Witjuti Grubs and have been highly regarded by aborigines for thousands of years. They are also hunted with great determination by many mammals and birds who listen for them and when located will dig them out. The common name of Goat Moth is due to the smelly nature of some grubs of certain species, although adult moths are not likewise affected.

Cossidae according to the Australian Faunal Directory has 20 Australian genera and 87 species, most of which are endemic. The genus Endoxyla is by far the largest with 58 species. Endoxyla bipustulatus has been recorded from Ravensthorpe and Cape Arid, thereby placing Esperance roughly central, but despite this, they are not locally common and if seen at all, is between October and December, even the two recorded collections above were made in November. This timing would coincide with the beginning of warmer weather and a reduction of rainfall, although ground conditions would still be moist and humidity reasonably high.

As Goat Moth larvae usually take 2 and 3 years before they pupate, mass emergence of adult moths are not likely unless their food trees are very numerous, which may reflect their limited numbers in the Esperance region due to a shortage of suitable sized eucalypts. Although with inland mallee regions where there are considerably more eucalypts, it could be a different matter. Anyway, when the larvae do eventually pupate, the newly formed moth will emerge from the trunk, leaving its pupal shell protruding from the tree. Endoxyla bipustulatus is on the smaller end of Cossid moths being around 4 cm or 13/4” in length.

Barychelidae - Idiommata sp. - Brushfooted Trapdoor Spider

2010-06-10T16:03:00.001+08:00

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Barychelidae - Idiommata sp. - Brushfooted Trapdoor Spider

The Barychelidae family has 12 genera with 112 species, although there are probably many unknown species. Their bite is not known to be lethal, but they can make you very sick and inflict nasty wounds with their long fangs, which with some North Queensland species can be 10 mm or 3/8” long. There is also a warning from a scientific institution, of a Queensland Idiommata species with venom potentially as dangerous as the Sydney Funnel-web Spider. However the Brushfooted Trapdoor Spider around Esperance is not aggressive and will either bunch up to make itself look as small as possible, or run away, nevertheless if seriously provoked they will rear up and probably defend themselves, so care should be taken if they are encountered.

The above Idiommata sp. is reasonably common around Esperance, but unless you go outside at night in search of them, it is doubtful if you will even see one and if you do, it will very likely be the male in search of his ladylove. The females like most of these primitive spiders, rarely stray far from their burrows and are most unlikely to be seen. It is reported that these spiders have the ability to climb smooth surfaces because of minute hairs on their feet, but those locally are to my knowledge not inclined to do so, although apparently it is not uncommon with certain Queensland species.

Males of the local Brushfooted Trapdoor Spider have a head/body length to around 2 cm or ¾”, but their long legs can span 7-8 cm or about 3”, however the most attention grabbing aspect is the soft looking silver/gold hair that covers much of its body and legs. There are four different individuals shown above and all were out and about during the month of June after good rain had fallen, others have been seen in July, but vary rarely at other times.

Christmas spider - Austracantha minax

2010-06-04T16:02:00.000+08:00

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Christmas spider - Austracantha minax

This orb-weaving spider from the Araneidae Family was previously known as Gasteracantha minax, but has now been placed back into its original genus (first described in 1859), where it is the only species. Christmas spiders, so named for the time of year they normally make an appearance, range across the southern and eastern regions of Australia, where they are also known as Jewel Spiders, Six Spined Spiders or Spiny Spiders.

These spiders can occur in huge numbers and string their vertical webs between low shrubs making it impossible to walk through parts of the bush without becoming covered in their webs. Fortunately the spiders quickly drop to the ground as you make contact and if you walk slowly, they will see you coming and scamper upside down along their support lines to avoid a collision. However, they are only small (females to 8 mm, or little over 1/4” head/body length, males are half that size) with tiny legs making their progress correspondingly slow.

Their markings are multi-coloured and certainly jewel like, however this stage is mainly from December to February, when later arrivals lack any markings and are a very dark brown to black. This change takes noticeable pace from the beginning of March until they disappear around the end of April. A possible reason this color change is the better heat absorption of dark colours during the cooler autumn season, but this is purely speculation and currently just an observation.

Asilidae - Asilinae sp. - Robber Fly

2010-06-01T18:14:00.001+08:00

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Asilidae - Asilinae sp. - Robber Fly

Worldwide there are thousands of Robber flies in the Asilidae family and in Australia, the Australian Faunal Directory lists 360 species with other authoritative sources quoting more than twice that number. So whatever the figure, there are a lot of them. Australian Asilidae are divided into 4 subfamilies with Asilinae being the largest. As a general rule, these subfamilies can be determined by the structure of their antennae with Asilinae having a fine terminal projection (antennal style), others are more feather-like, or uniformly thick, or have no projection at all.

Around Esperance I have not noticed many species, which is either just me, or that most of these robber flies prefer forested areas, although the one shown above is reasonably common. Asilidae are amongst the largest flies, with some possessing a 7.5 cm (3”) wingspan. The one above although impressively large, had only a 4.5 cm (a little under 2”) wingspan and a head/body length of nearly 3 cm or a little over 1”. However to most insects it would be terrifyingly large, as being predatory they will attack almost any flying insect, some larger than themselves.

Robber flies will perch and wait for an insect to fly past; it will capture it in flight grasping it in its strong legs. The exterior of the prey will be pierced with its sharp proboscis and injected with powerful enzymes to reduce the insides to a mush, then sucked out by the fly, leaving little more than an exoskeleton. Locally the above robber flies were most active from December to February.

Green Scarab Beetle - Diphucephala sp.

2010-05-29T18:13:00.000+08:00

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Green Scarab Beetle - Diphucephala sp.

Diphucephala is a genus of the Scarabaeidae family, many whose larvae are commonly known as Chafer grubs. Chafers are the C-shaped white grubs commonly dug up in your garden and usually handed to waiting birds who will readily accept them. Melolonthinae is one of several subfamilies whose larvae most fit the Chafer description and if they escape the birds and other hazards, mature into beetles of shades of brown or green, but Diphucephala beetles are special by sporting a glowing metallic green and like this species, can be quite spectacular.

According to the Australian Faunal Directory there are 68 Diphucephala species and collectively they are distributed Australia wide. The larvae like other chafer grubs burrow into the soil to eat the roots of various plants and some species (not Diphucephala) can occur in vast numbers to become a serious agricultural pest.

Most scarab beetles conduct their activities at night, however the green metallic ones are diurnal (active during the day), which is what you would expect from such a colourful insect, so presumably they must taste awful or look as though they would. I have seen them around Esperance at various times, but locally they are not overly common, which conceivably could reflect the availability of the vegetation the grubs feed upon. This in turn could reflect current burning practises, which being more limited these days than with pre-European aboriginal management, would curtail the growth of some plant species, particularly herbaceous ones.

These beetles are to be found after seasonal rains have moistened sub-surface soil, thereby permitting the beetles to escape their soil encased cocoon and so dig themselves out.

Australian Painted Lady - Vanessa kershawi

2010-05-25T17:46:00.000+08:00

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Australian Painted Lady - Vanessa kershawi

These orange, velvet textured butterflies belong to the Nymphalidae family and are commonly referred to as Nymphs. They range over much of Australia, except the hot/dry interior and are reasonably common around Esperance leisurely fluttering from one flower to another. However they are very difficult to approach, rarely letting you closer than a couple of metres (over 6’).

Their wingspan is close to 5 cm (2”) making them strong fliers, which on warm sunny days are able to move swiftly and acrobatically when required, although they tend to be slower and fly less on overcast days. When the weather is bleak, they will close their wings and perch largely motionless, which unlike their usual colourful presence, now merge remarkably well into surrounding vegetation.

Unlike the heavily forested regions of the Eastern States, the southern portion of Western Australia does not have a particularly large butterfly species list, numbering less than sixty, with most of these occurring around the tall timbered southwest corner of the State and the hills behind Perth. Around Esperance with its lack of large trees, drier and windier conditions, they are even less plentiful, the exception being the Australian Painted Lady and Common Grass-blue butterflies that are quite commonplace and widely distributed.

Matchstick Grasshopper - Morabinae sp.

2010-05-21T15:56:00.002+08:00

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Matchstick Grasshopper - Morabinae sp.

Morabinae is a Subfamily of the Eumastacudae Family (also known as Monkey Grasshoppers), which according to several references claim to have around 200 species, although the Australian Faunal Directory states Morabinae has only 90. As the AFD also refers to Eumastacudae as a Superfamily, I am not sure what is going on here and assume it is something that only happens with invertebrates (tic). Anyway, whether one or two hundred species they all apparently look very similar to each other and are mainly separated by genitalia differences, so trying to place these grasshoppers into one of 41 genera let alone at species level is something I leave to experts.

The above Matchstick Grasshopper is around 2.5 cm (1”) in length and is beautifully camouflaged in its round sedge habitat, although many species and maybe this one too, will frequent and feed on shrubby vegetation. Currently I have found only two of these insects (both shown) in two places about a kilometre apart, but the vegetation was similar, so presume they would be reasonably widespread around Esperance in this common sedge habitat. However, from information read, Morabinae can be found Australia wide and sometimes occur in considerable numbers.

When first encountered, I was searching for Pyrgomorphinae and specifically Psednurini, which are very like these Matchstick Grasshoppers, but on closer inspection the antennae of the Morabinae are distinctly triangular and the head is not in line with the rest of the body, looking as if connected via a neck. The undersides are also quite different, but on general appearance are easily confused.

Morabinae are apparently nocturnal and it is said, they are then easier to find by sight, but being so well camouflaged I am not so sure, although a sweep net draws not such distinction and is probably the way to go if they are not plentiful. Also as they are wingless and not a distance hopper, a net would indicate a simple method of capture. Probably due to this lack of locomotion, Matchstick Grasshoppers in the Morabinae subfamily are thought to be endemic to Australia.

My thanks to Dr David Rentz for identification.

Zizina labradus - Common Grass-blue Butterfly

2010-05-11T18:05:00.004+08:00

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Zizina labradus - Common Grass-blue Butterfly

The Zizina genus has only one species, but belongs to the Lycaenidae family, which according to the Australian Faunal Directory currently has 45 genera and 143 species. Commonly this group of butterflies are called Blues, Coppers and Hairstreaks. Interestingly, many have a strong association with ants that will tend them at the larval stage and protect them from predators.

A paper titled THE ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION OF ANT ASSOCIATION IN THE LYCAENIDAE (LEPIDOPTERA) by N E Pierce, M F Braby, A Heath, D J. Lohman, J Mathew, D B. Rand and M A. Travassos, goes into some depth about the types of association these butterflies have with ants. It involves the payment by the butterfly larva of a sweet secretion, and/or chemical and sound mimicry. It is far too involved to detail here, but can be read online at http://www.dnp.go.th/FIG/biodiversity/Pierce2002AnnualReview.pdf

According to the excellent paperback called ‘The Complete Field Guide to Butterflies of Australia’ by Michael F Braby, the Common Grass-blue Butterfly larvae is attended by a number of ant species although some butterflies in this family have a very specific and complex relationship with a single ant species.

Zizina labradus is a very common butterfly and ranges over much of Australia. Locally it can occur in large numbers, particularly when a heavy nectar producing plant with a powerful honey perfume is in bloom; otherwise it slowly flusters around feeding on whatever takes its fancy. They are relatively easy to approach and will usually continue to siphon up nectar providing you do not make sudden movements.

The easiest way to distinguish this species from other local Blues is by the smooth rounded shape of the hind wings; the others have small projections. Also the markings on the rear of the wings are not as clearly marked as other species that have more sharply defined spots and markings. Size wise it is around 1 cm (3/8”) in head/body length, with a wingspan of 2 cm or ¾” (female is slightly larger).

Polyzosteria mitchelli - Mardi Gras Cockroach

2010-05-08T18:12:00.004+08:00

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Polyzosteria mitchelli - Mardi Gras Cockroach

Despite a multitude of disparaging remarks about cockroaches made daily, some are remarkably beautiful. These include many Australian species and in particular Polyzosteria mitchelli, which I would love to invade my house, but unfortunately they are just not interested, preferring a life in the bush.

Polyzosteria mitchelli belongs to the Blattidae family (one of four cockroach families) along with 218 species in 20 genera (Australian Faunal Directory). The genus Polyzosteria from the same source has 15 species with many also very colourful. However Polyzosteria mitchelli would have to be one of the most striking with its brilliant color combination. It is mainly recorded from the semi-arid areas of WA, SA and NSW, where always a delight to encounter.

I have found it (usually on shrubby vegetation) from coastal heath to inland mallee flora, including saltlakes and granite outcrops, so although not common, it is very widespread. Growing to 5 cm (2”) in length, it is quite stout and not very fast when compared to the troublesome introduced species that commonly invade houses. The local forms have a bronze background colouration, but apparently metallic green shades have been found in SA.

Female cockroaches produce an ootheca, a blunt protruding seedlike capsule that contain her fertilised eggs. This she will carry around for some time until she finds a suitable place to leave it, where hopefully the young will emerge to pursue an independent existence. Polyzosteria mitchelli can be encountered anytime during the warmer months and although active during the day, often wander around on the ground at night. They are usually solitary and generally only come together to mate.

Blue Ringtail Damselfly - Austrolestes annulosus

2010-04-30T17:30:00.002+08:00

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Blue Ringtail Damselfly - Austrolestes annulosus

From the Lestidae family, Austrolestes annulosus would be the bluest of all the Ringtail Damselflies and on that feature alone males can be identified from a distance. The female on the other hand is much less distinguishable, being a pale to very pale blue with a bronze dorsel colouration, but what they have in common is the forward facing arrowheads or triangle markings on most abdominal segments.

Locally, this damselfly is not particularly common, although odd individuals are usually present amongst other damselflies. They are noticeably larger than most other species that is further emphasised by the males flashy blue coloration, the duller females probably visit individual waterways to pair up with the resident male, mate, lay their eggs, then move on. When paired together, I found them to be very wary and will fly off if approached too closely (less than 1.5 metres or 5’).

Austrolestes annulosus is widespread in Australia, occurring in all States, including Tasmania, but is not found in northern Australia, apparently preferring drier and less humid summers. Like most of the local damselflies, the Blue Ringtail is most active during the warmer months from November to April, which here would be the driest time of the year. However as they quickly disappear at the first sign of colder night temperatures, these damselflies obviously like it warm and dry.

Western Ringtail Damselfly - Austrolestes aleison

2010-04-27T17:08:00.003+08:00

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Western Ringtail Damselfly - Austrolestes aleison

Austrolestes aleison is part of the Lestidae family along with a couple of other genera, although only Austrolestes is known to occur in Western Australia and these are commonly known as Ringtails. There are five Ringtail species listed for the SW of WA, although I have only seen three locally. The Western Ringtail is quite distinctive and unlikely to be confused with the other WA species, the male having narrow blue rings along its abdomen against a dark background, whilst the female has pale blue rings and none at the tail end. Also the dorsel colour of the female is a bronze brown and the male much darker, but these can vary to the eye, depending on the angle of sunlight.

The thorax marking in profile is a distinguishing feature of Austrolestes aleison, as is a dorsel wineglass marking on the male just behind the thorax. This species is one of the few damselflies restricted to the southwest of Western Australia, although a similar looking species the Cup Ringtail A. psyche has an Eastern States distribution.

Locally, most of the Damselflies disappear by the end of March when there is a big influx of Dragonflies anxious to complete their egg laying before the weather gets too cold. So although these Western Ringtails can normally be seen daily during the warmer part of the year, they no longer can be found, but no doubt will turn up again next spring/summer.

Western Rough Wolf Spider - Venator immansueta

2010-04-24T17:01:00.007+08:00

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Western Rough Wolf Spider - Venator immansueta

Venator immansueta is a member of Lycosidae, the Wolf Spider family and was known as Lycosa immansueta. In spring it is a very common ground dwelling spider of the Esperance district and large numbers of juveniles can be seen at night by the reflexion of their eyes when a light is shone on them. However these numbers greatly reduce through predatory pressures and other factors, leaving only a tiny fraction (now adult) by autumn.

The Western Rough Wolf Spider is not a particularly large species with the larger bodied females (top two photos, bottom two are male) being between 1-2 cm (little over 1/2”) in length excluding legs, even including the legs the overall length is no more than 5 cm (2”), so not a very scary spider even for arachnophobes. When spotted by the bright reflexion of their eyes, they mostly remain motionless relying on blending into their surroundings, which they do very well. They are not at all aggressive and if provoked will usually dash away to denser vegetation to seek better cover.

Venator immansueta is a very widespread species, occurring in the southern part of Western Australia, also in South Australia and around semi-coastal areas to North Queensland, but presumably there it has a different common name. The typical eye arrangement of Wolf Spiders is 4 forward facing small eyes, below 2 large ones, with another 2 large ones further back, one on each side, so they can usually be spotlighted regardless of the direction they are facing. Lycosidae currently has 23 genera and around 150 species and is currently undergoing review that will possibly involve this species.

My thanks to the WA Museum for identification.

Update March 2011
This species has been moved from the Hogna genus to Venator and is now known as Venator immansueta.

Idiopidae - Anidiops sp. - Giant Trapdoor Spider

2010-04-18T19:20:00.004+08:00

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Idiopidae - Anidiops sp. - Giant Trapdoor Spider

A common spider of the Esperance region, although I have only seen the male (the female remaining hidden in her burrow). The mature males of this species are the largest of the burrowing spiders in this area and are commonly between 20-30 mm or over 1" in length (excluding legs and palps). But when the legs are taken into account they span nearly 100 mm or 4" (although most would be smaller), also as they are usually very black and hairy, they are not the sort of thing you can easily ignore.

The Esperance region Giant Trapdoor Spiders are not aggressive unless provoked and will play dead when being examined. However, do not place your fingers too close as they can be very fast and will possibly bite. On one occasion I encountered a very large male and took a few photos with the flashlight, which did not impress him at all. I had a plastic ruler and wanted to measure him so placed it 50 cm (2’) to one side when he was at rest, but no sooner had I put the ruler on the ground, when surprisingly quickly he jumped upon it and tried to bite. So treat these guys with respect, for although they have not brought anyone close to death’s door, they can inflict a deep and painful bite.

For the arachnophobes, these spiders only come out at night and can be encountered anytime except when the weather is hot and dry, or cold and windy, so unless you go looking for these spiders on calm humid nights, you will probably never see one. Although a couple who were camped near the beach told me they found two large ones close to their tent, which even I would find a little unsettling.

The frog by the way did not eat the spider; they just passed in the night.

Moerarchis clathrata - Cloths Moth

2010-04-16T15:38:00.004+08:00

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Moerarchis clathrata - Cloths Moth

Moths in the Moerarchis genus belong to the Tineidae family that are collectively known as Cloths or Wool Moths, but only a small number of moths in this family are guilty of that offence. The larvae of Moerarchis clathrata feast on the stumps of dead Grasstrees (Xanthorrhoea spp.) and have not the slightest interest in human clothing, so its common name is an unintentional slur on this most attractive small moth (around 1 cm or 3/8” in length).

This species occurs along the south coast of Western Australia, where grasstrees are particularly plentiful in the coastal heath. In the Eastern States where grasstrees are also common, another similar looking Moerarchis species (M. australasiella) occupies this niche. Both have reflective metallic scales, thus making their colours difficult to reproduce with any photographic accuracy, but are most picturesque with the bright orange strongly contrasting with the black, cream and yellow wings.

The Moerarchis clathrata moths are reasonably common and are attracted to house lights after rain during summer and autumn. As adults, they have only a short life as they do not feed, but hopefully will find a mate in order to reproduce in the time available.

Brown Lacewings - Hemerobiidae

2010-04-10T16:47:00.004+08:00

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Brown Lacewings - Hemerobiidae

Locally, Brown Lacewings are around 1-1.5 cm (1/2”) in length and tend to be pale brown without any distinguishing marks, making them somewhat innocuous and easily overlooked. Even if noticed, most would not give them a second glance, passing them off as a little brown moth-like insect, but both they and their larvae are ravenous feeders on aphids, mealy bugs and other soft bodied insects that are normally regarded as pests. So Brown Lacewings although not much to look at, are one of the good guys!

According to the Australian Faunal Directory, there are 10 genera in the Hemerobiidae family with a total of 34 Australian species. Like the Green Lacewings, they are far more numerous in the Eastern States, with south Western Australia having only 5 species from 4 genera. Dr TR New in 1988 revised the Australian family in his manuscript ‘A revision of the Australian Hemerobiidae (Insecta : Neuroptera),’ where he described a new genus and 13 new species. No doubt others are now awaiting study.

The described Hemerobiidae species for SW coastal WA are Carobius pedicellatus, Carobius spinosus, Drepanepteryx binocula, Hemerobius tasmaniae and Psychobiella occidentalis, so presumably the photos above would illustrate one or more of these species. Brown Lacewings are often attracted to house lights after light rain on windless nights during the months of March and April.

Wandering Percher - Diplacodes bipunctata

2010-04-02T18:22:00.002+08:00

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Wandering Percher - Diplacodes bipunctata

Diplacodes bipunctata is a member of the Libellulidae family and despite its flashy exotic appearance is widely distributed in Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and numerous Pacific Islands. The males are a striking orange/red and have small black triangles spaced down their abdomen, whereas the females are yellow, also with similar black abdominal markings, plus a thin black mid-dorsel line.

Wandering Percher Dragonflies are around 3 cm (11/4”) in length and are quite common, although they tend to move around in groups so can be plentiful one day, but gone the next. They are called Perching Dragonflies, because that is what the male does by spending a considerable amount of time perched in a favourite spot whilst waiting for the females to arrive, which they also seem to do as a group. The males then become most active, not only mating on the wing, but are continually in flight guiding and protecting the female while she lays her eggs.

Wandering Percher females do not lay their eggs on aquatic vegetating like most other dragonflies, but hover with the male just above the water surface, where she quickly dips the tip of her abdomen to release an egg, then moving a short distance to repeat the procedure. They mostly place their eggs in shallow water and can be seen with other couples near the waters edge, or flying parallel to it, stopping at short intervals to drop another.

The distribution of a similar looking dragonfly, the Scarlet Percher Diplacodes haematodes is included for the Esperance region (The Complete Field Guide to Dragonflies of Australia by G. Theischinger and J. Hawking), where the male is also a bright orange/red, but lacks the black mid-dorsal markings. However, I have not as yet seen this species and have no idea how the female compares with the female Wandering Percher Dragonfly.

Pterolocera elizabeta - Anthelidae

2010-03-29T17:27:00.004+08:00

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Pterolocera elizabeta - Anthelidae

The Pterolocera elizabeta male is a striking woolly moth with huge antennae used to track the wingless females. These large antennae are a feature of the Pterolocera genus, although not all species have wingless females. Those of Pterolocera isogama (also from the southern part of WA) do have wings, but to complicate identification the males are similar to Pterolocera elizabeta, although without wing markings and emerge from their cocoon mid-winter. Pterolocera elizabeta on the other hand emerges after rain during late summer and autumn, which is the case above.

This WA species also looks similar to Anthela ferruginosa (once placed in the Pterolocera genus), but this species is apparently restricted to NSW, ACT, Victoria and Tasmania. Another problem taxonomists have had with classifying these moths is they are highly variable in coloration and markings, so it is wise not to be too pedantic in this regard. I have included a caterpillar photograph that I suspect is the larval stage, due to the scruffy hairy nature and markings (particularly the bold vertical stripe on the head). The larvae feed on low bushes and apparently pupate in the ground, their hairs projecting through the cocoon, which if handled can penetrate the skin, then break-off to become very irritating.

Pterolocera elizabeta is about 2 cm (3/4”) in head/body length and apparently prefers the cooler part of the night, which again matches the above moths that appeared around midnight after rain, during February and March. Both were attracted to house lights and if this is a species characteristic, then they are not overly common around the Esperance heathland as only a few have visited.

Australian Emperor Dragonfly - Hemianax papuensis

2010-03-19T16:28:00.002+08:00

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Australian Emperor Dragonfly - Hemianax papuensis

The Australian Emperor Dragonfly is the largest I have seen in the Esperance region, having a head/body length of around 7 cm (3”). As a size comparison, hovering over the egg laying Emperor Dragonfly couple above, is a blue damselfly Austroagrion cyane, the South-western Billabongfly. Although not uncommon, Hemianax papuensis are continuously on the move and can be very difficult to photograph, even when they do rest, they take-off long before you can get close. Being exceptionally strong fliers they can be found throughout Australia, plus New Zealand, New Guinea and many Islands to the north of Australia.

Hemianax papuensis is the only Australian species in the Hemianax genus, which in turn belongs to the Aeshnidae family along with 6 other genera and 13 indigenous species, however none are endemic to Australia and like the Australian Emperor are distributed over a large area, some as far as India.

Locally, Hemianax papuensis favours slow streams and still waters, providing aquatic vegetation is available. Near me is a small dam with plenty of surrounding vegetation, but it had no aquatic plants, so I collected several Bulrush tubers from the creek and planted them into the dam 3 years ago. Only one tuber survived, but has done quite well and now there are around 30 rushes poking out of the water, which are perfect for the damselfies/dragonflies, with several having taken up residence and others visiting, thereby increasing biodiversity considerably.

South-western Billabongfly - Austroagrion cyane

2010-03-14T19:00:00.002+08:00

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South-western Billabongfly - Austroagrion cyane

The genus Austroagrion has 4 species that are all found in WA, but Austroagrion cyane is the only one occurring in southern coastal districts. It belongs to the Coenagrionidae family, which has 13 genera and a total of 31 species. Although the South-western Billabongfly is the only local species from Austroagrion, there is a similar looking damselfly from a different genus called the Common Bluebell, Ischnura heterosticta, which in some regions co-exist, although I have not seen any around Esperance. They are easily separated by the markings behind the head; A. cyane has a blue dumbbell shape, whereas I. Heterosticta has only two blue unconnected spots. There are other differences, but they are less obvious or more variable.

Around Esperance, Austroagrion cyane is probably the most common damselfly and often there are several males together without any apparent aggression, unfortunately for them, females seem to be far less common. They prefer still or slow moving water and are probably attracted to the numerous ephemeral swamps in the region. Growing to around 2-3 cm (1’) in length, they can often be seen with others, including males of different species, waiting on aquatic vegetation for the arrival of females. Locally, they are permanent residents and during warmer months can be encountered in most suitable aquatic habitats.

Red & Blue Damsel - Xanthagrion erythroneurum

2010-03-11T16:40:00.004+08:00

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Red & Blue Damsel - Xanthagrion erythroneurum

Damselflies and Dragonflies both belong to the Order Odonata, they are then divided into the Suborders of Zygoptera for Damselflies and Anisoptera for Dragonflies. Damselflies physically differ by having wings that taper from the wing apex to their attachment and are usually held close to the abdomen. Dragonflies hold their wings stiffly at right-angles to their body. The larvae also have three long gills at the base of their abdomen, whereas Dragonfly larvae have none. There are 12 Damselfly families in Australia with 37 genera and 112 species (Australian Faunal Directory). Xanthagrion erythroneurum belongs to the Coenagrionidae family and is the only species in the Xanthagrion genus.

Generally, damselflies tend to remain at rest more than dragonflies and are mostly encountered clinging to vegetation in or around an aquatic environment, which may be fast flowing or a quiet pond. The Red & Blue Damselfly prefers the slower moving or still water habitat, where the more common male takes up a territory to attract a female, which is then defended against other males. This is likely to be more successful if there are aquatic plants projecting from the water, on which the female can lay her eggs.

With Xanthagrion erythroneurum, the colours of the male and female are somewhat similar, although the male is usually a brighter red or orange and has a couple of bright blue bands near the base of the abdomen. The slightly duller female has only narrow blue bands, plus a wider pale underbelly.

This damselfly has a wide distribution, occurring in all Australian States, plus New Caledonia, Fiji and New Zealand. Like most damselflies the Red & Blue Damsel is an excellent flier, catching live prey on the wing. Despite their extensive distribution most would be permanent residents around suitable waterways where it is not unusual to have a single male guarding quite a large territory, although others quickly move in when females arrive.

Update 21/03/2010
Two photographs added.

Orthodera ministralis - Green Mantid

2010-03-06T17:49:00.004+08:00

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Orthodera ministralis - Green Mantid

The genus Orthodera belongs to the Mantidae family, the largest Australian mantid family with 29 genera and 76 species (Australian Faunal Directory). Orthodera has 6 species of which two are found in Western Australia, but I have only noticed Orthodera ministralis the Green Mantid around Esperance, although the other O. gunnii may also be in the region. Mantids in the Mantidae family are distinguished from other mantids by having two rows of spines on the grasping section of the forelegs, whilst those in other families only have a single row.

An attractive feature of Orthodera mantids is the blue eye-like marking on the inside of the foreleg, which apparently varies in configuration between species. Orthodera ministralis is very common, occurring throughout Australia including Tasmania and often-encountered on mild, humid, windless nights hunting moths attracted to house lights. They have strong wings and are good fliers, so can be enticed to visit even from a distance; consequently you would probably know if they were in your district. Being ravenous insect predators, taking virtually anything they can overpower, they are good to have in the garden to help control insect pests.

This mantid grows to 4 cm (13/4”) in length excluding antennae and is around all year with the exception of winter, when presumably it dies, although I have seen larger mantid species that haven’t. Apart from birds and small carnivorous mammals, adult mantids would have few predators, but this does not apply to the young as the eggs are commonly parasitised by wasps, and the nymphs by most invertebrate predators including adult mantids, therefore a great incentive for them to grow quickly.

Bark Mantid - Paraoxypilus laticollis

2010-02-26T17:14:00.004+08:00

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Bark Mantid - Paraoxypilus laticollis

In Australia, Mantids (commonly known as Praying Mantids or as a Praying Mantis) belong to three families, the largest (Mantidae) having well over 100 species; contrasting with a north Queensland family with only a single species. Paraoxypilus laticollis belongs to Amorphoscelidae the third family, which has 28 species spread over 8 genera. The genus Paraoxypilus has 8 species with only one of these (Paraoxypilus laticollis), residing in the southern part of Western Australia. Surprisingly it is also found in the hot inland Lake Eyre Basin of South Australia and the Northern Territory, although it is possibly more widespread but not recorded, as the region is very remote and the Bark Mantid blends very well into its tree trunk habitat. Apart from a single north Queensland Paraoxypilus species (also found in neighbouring Papua New Guinea), Paraoxypilus mantids are endemic to Australia.

The larger mantids in the Mantidae family are common around Esperance, but personally, I have not seen many of these smaller Bark Mantids, particularly females, the males are more noticeable as they have wings and are occasionally attracted to house lights, although not often. Had not the wingless female wandered in one afternoon, I doubt I would have noticed her on a similar coloured and knobbly Banksia speciosa or Nuytsia floribunda trunk. The female was around 2 cm (3/4”) in length, but more than made up for her lack of size and absence of wings, by a rapid running action and would have disappeared had I not placed my hand in front of her, which only delayed her for a few moments before she took off again. The winged males are a little larger to about 2.5 cm (1”) in length and just sit on the flyscreen until they decide there are better places to be and fly away.

All mantids are carnivorous and mostly hunt their prey by waiting in ambush for an unsuspecting creature of a size capable of being overpowered, to pass by. Consequently, prey and type vary depending on the mantid size and development; likewise their coloration is often nondescript so they can be inconspicuous to prey and predators.

Tau Emerald Dragonfly - Hemicordulia tau

2010-02-22T17:48:00.005+08:00

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Tau Emerald Dragonfly - Hemicordulia tau

Hemicordulia tau belongs to the Hemicorduliidae family, which has two species in the Esperance region, both very similar and difficult to separate without careful investigation. These dragonflies are known as vagrants, which means they are wanderers and not permanent in any location, however they are both common and also can be found in all Eastern States including Tasmania. They are excellent fliers and seldom rest, but when they do, they usually hang vertically with wings extended at right angles. When on patrol along creeks, swamps and pools, they often hover with their body motionless whilst investigating any intruder and are known to chase off other less agile dragonfly species, besides rival males.

The Tau Emerald Dragonfly is more widespread than the similar Australian Emerald Hemicordulia australiae and successfully occupies the dry interior and Nullarbor where water is limited and often temporary. Other differences include the markings on the frons (nose), which on the Tau Emerald is yellow with a black T marking, whereas is darkly coloured without markings on the Australian Emerald. The extent of the blue/green color is another distinguishing feature that relates to the abdominal segments, of which there are nine (excluding the thorax and anal appendages). With the Tau Emerald the seventh segment (third from the anal appendage end) is largely darkly coloured on top, but the Australian Emerald’s is strongly constricted at the top of the seventh segment and the one below (eighth).

Hemicordulia tau is around 5 cm (2”) in head/body length and locally likely to be encountered during the warmer months from January to March. The metallic blue/green markings on the otherwise yellow abdomen are quite striking, particularly when viewed in reflective sunlight, making this species one not to miss.

A very useful and relatively inexpensive publication permitting identification to species level is The Complete Field Guide to Dragonflies of Australia by G.Theischinger and J.Hawking.

Update 21/03/2010
Two photographs exchanged.
Update 23/05/2010
Photo of black facial T marking added.

Yellow-winged Locust - Gastrimargus musicus

2010-02-16T17:25:00.006+08:00

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Yellow-winged Locust - Gastrimargus musicus

A common widespread locust found in all mainland Australian States. There are two distinct forms, one being the solitary ‘non-swarming’ variety and the other the ‘swarming’ plague agricultural pest. The latter tends to occur in the more northern latitudes where there is heat and summer rainfall; both needed for breeding purposes. Further south where rainfall is winter dominant, it is usually too dry for a successful mass egg-laying during summer and too cold during winter. But the solitary locust can be common in southern areas, even to become local pests, but they are far from being in plague proportions (more than 50 individuals per square metre/yard), when they can really do some damage.

The Yellow-winged Locust is easily recognised by their bright yellow wings and black border, which are clearly shown as they take off a metre or two in front of you, when walking along sedge or grass covered tracks. They flutter several metres/yards before dropping to the ground, only to rise again and repeat the process when you approach. This flight habit makes them very difficult to photograph in their natural surroundings, or to catch by hand without dramatic dives to the ground. Even if you do manage to grab one, it is usually more luck than good judgement.

At rest, the Yellow-winged Locust is similar in appearance to Locusta migratoria the Migratory Locust, although a little smaller, the latter mostly over 5 cm (2”), whilst the former usually around 4 cm (13/4”). There are several other noticeable differences, but these can be highly variable, therefore several features need to be considered together. Besides distinctively coloured wings (Migratory Locusts have a clear or pale yellow wing, without a border), the markings on the face, wings and rear legs usually differ, as do the shanks or tibia that are bright red/purple on the Yellow-winged, and pale pink or yellow/brown on the Migratory. From local Esperance observations where both species occur, only the Migratory Locust are attracted to house lights, as I have never encountered the other despite it being more common.

Beside behavioural differences between ‘swarming’ and ‘non-swarming’ yellow-winged locusts, there are physical differences too, the most obvious being the ridge (pronotum) behind the head on the thorax, which is not there (the area flattened) when swarming. When conditions are right, plague proportions can develop remarkably quickly, with only 11 days from the laying of eggs to the emergence of the hoppers, and another 40 days before those hoppers turn into adults, with only another 12 before these adults begin laying eggs of their own.

Swamp Flat-tail Dragonfly - Austrothemis nigrecens

2010-02-12T17:59:00.003+08:00

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Swamp Flat-tail Dragonfly - Austrothemis nigrecens

The Australian Faunal Directory states that dragonflies belong to the Suborder Epiproctophora, which has 6 Superfamilies, 18 Families, 73 Genera and 209 species within Australia. None of which include subspecies or damselfies, so plenty to keep an entomologist occupied. The Swamp Flat-tail Dragonfly Austrothemis nigrecens, is part of the Libellulidae family and the only species in the Austrothemis genus. It is distinguished from other genera by a small lump on the hind margin of the eye, which may be seen in some photographs (check the rear eye margin halfway down).

Austrothemis nigrecens is one of the most common Dragonflies in my district, being attracted to pools, deeper ephemeral swamps and small slow moving creeks. They are easy to identify by having distinctively flattened abdomens and males being orange/red, females a bright yellow, both with black markings, which as the photos show can vary slightly. They are around 4 cm (1.75”) in head/body length.

Austrothemis nigrecens is distributed widely in the Eastern States, but in WA is restricted to the SW corner where a permanent resident. Interestingly, with most dragonflies the males are more common, but locally the females of this species are considerably more numerous. Dragonflies with their large eyes have virtually 360 degree vision and with their powerful but agile flight, make them highly effective predators on flying insects, which are taken on the wing.