I’m up for Jude’s challenge this month, getting closer to subject matter in the garden.
It’s a dynamic time here in the Western Cape, South Africa where autumn has an array of tricks up her sleeve. Take a peek at what’s happening in my garden: a budding blushing bride; hot pink portulaca sporting a sexy stigmas and stamens, and the pest in the plot – a green shield stink bug.
Nature on the Edge 
Very fine!
Thanks Eliza 🙂
The stink-bug is fantastic!
Yes, it’s a little marvel – i was surprised to see all that intricate detail.
Great series – adore the stink bug!
There’s a surprising characterfulness about this stink bug!
Oh that stink bug looks so wicked. 😯 Such beautiful flowers.
Good point Sylvia…. have my eye on that that species – could soon be banished.
By banished, I presume you mean annihilated. 😆
Best scenario is for it to fly off and try other tasty faraway plants, but it’s days are numbered if it’s back near the Blushing Bride!
Hope he knows what good for his health. 😀
heavens these are all beauties and that stink bug! Oh, wow, I have to get a close up of one of those. I never knew they have such interesting faces. You have captured his smile perfectly 🙂
Amazing how these bugs appear to have their own personalities 🙂
The stink bug looks like someone graffitied (new verb!) him. What a crazy shot!
Like that verb…. was thinking Kermit …
Superb macro here!
Thanks!
Welcome!
gorgeous blooms ….beautiful green bug….love autumn!!
Thanks! Autumn has it’s own fiery heart.
Beautiful flowers and the stink bug looks like it’s got a big grin on its face!
Thanks Gilly. Lots of buds setting – a bit early for spring flowering with winter still to get through. Watching the blushing bride protea buds keenly – could be open in a couple of weeks. Wee green beastie may be banished soon.
Gorgeous pics Liz, especially that bright green beastie 🙂
Thanks Karen. Keeping an eye on green beastie – it’s out if it’s the culprit sucking on Blushing Bride.
Bwahaaaaaa
Love these macros, Liz. The centre details in the pink flower are gorgeous and I love the bug’s eyes.
Thanks Jane. It can be surprising to discover what’s revealed through macro!
Great stink bug catch! Lovely shots…
I’m still to master the art of macros. These are fantastic. What camera do you shoot with?
Thanks for the comments Kim. I tend to use my Nikon D300 with Nikkor micro 105mm lens plus extension tubes. Also use a Nikon D810 but generally have my telephoto set up. Macros take patience and the trick is getting the focal plane right.
Love the bug – we have native green shield bugs here in the UK too, but we don’t call them stink bugs! The natives don’t cause damage to plants, but we do have an invader, the southern green shield bug that may cause distorted bean pods and damaged fruits.
Good to get your information. I must revisit the gardening authority here – i may be judging this bug too harshly.
Liz – These are fantastic. Even the stinkbug. 🙂
All things great and small …! Yes that stinkbug made a popular debut 🙂 Thanks for the comments Mar.
The last one is the bestest 🙂 for me, I am partial to a nice insect close up!