Milkweed plants provide a wonderful habitat for all kinds of creatures, including this Large Milkweed Bug (Oncopeltus fasciatus) that I spotted earlier this week at Green Spring Gardens. These bugs go through a fascinating series of physical transformations as they move though different nymph phases. A little over six years ago, I studied these bugs pretty closely and documented their stages of development in a posting that I called Life phases of the large milkweed beetle. Be sure to check it out for more information and fascinating photos of these colorful little bugs.
I really like the combination of colors in this simple shot, colors that remind me a little of Christmas. However, I doubt that anyone would choose to feature this image on their annual Christmas card. 🙂
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
Mike Powell 
Agreed: not for Christmas cards. On the other hand, Halloween is coming, and what a costume this would be.
Benjamin and I have been missing due to a “bug” that he brought home from preschool! Today, he has come for a three day visit while his parents are away. He is thrilled with this “humongous Milkweed bug” because it is Benjamin’s favorite color, “orange”! We are going to visit the post from years ago too. Thank-you, Mr. Mike!!
He’s a colorful little bugger.