Hilo Daily Image

 

 

 

 

I was late this morning. I made a few shots I thought would work, and then I noticed a spray of the little red orchids where the blossoms were darker in color than usual. I also noticed -- on the display -- that the stem seemed hairier than usual. The wind was whipping the spray around and I didn't want to go in and get the clamp, so I upped the ISO and got to work.

 

Inside I realized the "hairs" were insects. Lots of them. I'll find out what they are from an entomologist friend.

 

So. Orchids and insects feasting on them.

 

Note added 2015 09 23: the entomologist Jesse Eiben tells me these are "orchid aphids," Sitobion luteum. Invasive, of course.