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Thursday, September 16, 2010

Walk softly, but be a big stick.

I have seen two live walking sticks, other than in photos. This one was on our deck tonight. The other one found its way into the house a few years ago and made the mistake of trying to walk on a packing tape dispenser.

For the record, Loy and I worked toothpicks under its feet, and then inserted tissue between them and the tape. Last I saw, that one was negotiating the woodpile just fine.

I think this is one of the most elegant creatures in nature. You would have to be so obsessive/compulsive to actually be able to spot one in a tree or on a bush that I would be hesitant to enter more than a casual acquaintanceship with a stick insect specialist. Anyway, heeeere's the stick from Battle Creek. From antennae tips to the tip of its curious tail end, this one was a little over 5 inches.




5 comments:

Neal said...

Great post, great pics. I particularly loved this gem:

"... I would be hesitant to enter more than a casual acquaintanceship with a stick insect specialist."

Thanks.

Jon said...

Gonzo Entomologist?

Bob Newland said...

That felt like a compliment.

Jon said...

I think that if you could tame one of those wild creatures they would make a very efficient pipe cleaner. I'd imagine the costs of stabling said creature would be attractive as well.

Bill Fleming said...

Cool. Is Loy going to make some glass ones? Those could be cool. Very fragile though, huh? Especially the antennae. Just a whisper of glass. Nice shots, Bob.

You do good bug.