Observation

Buggin’ is all about observation, well, I could actually say the same about photography in general. The more we practise, the better our observation gets and the more photo opportunities present.

Examples of observations in the world of bugging; Checking the base of trees for droppings and other deposits. Sawdust will indicate that carpenter bees are active overhead, small pellet droppings, caterpillars, colourful, fruity piles of droppings, bats are roosting overhead. Droppings are very important, an indication that otters are working the area is given away by a pungent, fishy smell. The smell attracts a myriad of bugs, attracted to the rich source of nutrients.

Subtle movements can give away a lot of life that would otherwise be missed. You learn the difference between a lizard and a snake moving a bush. The lizard moves in short jerky motions, the snake moves the bush in a long, constant rustle.

Look for blemishes that are out of place and examine more closely. Dead leaves and bird droppings that display too much symmetry often turn out to be well disguised moths or other bugs.

Stop for a couple of minutes and just stare at a bush and wait for something to move. A bit of fluff or a debris moves a millimetre, turns out to be a bagworm, wearing a jacket of seed shells or bits of bark. Windless days are a bonus, as more subtle movements catch our eyes.

Today’s find was a leaf that blew horizontally and stopped in front of me. I noted that there was no wind and so moved in for a closer look. It is all about raising your observation skills.

Dave