#phasmida

I don’t think I’ve explained yet in any of my posts but the Costa Rica trip I went on was an organized, nature journaling trip with an emphasis on insects. We had two “leaders” —an entomologist, Nancy Miorelli (known as Scibugs across various social media platforms) and Marley Pieffer, an artist and nature journaler. As this was my first time out of the U.S., I thought this kind of trip would be a really good fit for my partner and I! I would be able to meet bug-minded people, and my partner wouldn’t have to worry about logistics! If you’re worried about planning an eco-tourism trip (or any kind of trip for that matter) I’d definitely recommend it! Just be sure to go through reputable channels.

Nancy had posted a photo of this gorgeous phasmid in our group-chat during one of our “free” hours. I immediately found her (we were all staying at the same lodge, after all) and asked her where she had seen it. She kindly pulled out a map and pointed out the spot where she encountered the little creature. I grabbed my hat and bag and told my partner we were going to go find that bug! (He isn’t super into insects like I am but is always good-natured and enthusiastic about my interests, as I believe a good partner should be.) It started raining, a brief downpour as we learned was common in Costa Rica, but luckily we found the phasmid fairy quickly! I cannot express how grateful I am to have been able to go on this trip and see these beautiful creatures in person. I’ll continue sharing more photos from that trip as well as my everyday, local bugs of course. Thanks for all your support! (Also I know the last picture isn’t great, but I wanted to include it anyway so y’all could get a sense of scale.)

💚 Bugs and hugs,