Gold Coast Insects.

I'm no expert on insects and don't even know most of their proper names. So this page will just show you the insects we have observed in our backyard on the Gold Coast. Represented here under the names we locals use to describe them.
	BLue Orange Bug. I am constantly amazed at the wondrous designs in nature. The patterns on this bug are very reminiscent of Aboriginal Art [which I also admire]. Photo: Ian Walker.
Gold Chrysalis. This is the Pupa [Chrysalis] of the Common Crow or Oleander Butterfly [Euploea sp]. Photo: Ian Walker. Found hanging from the underside of an Oleander leaf in our backyard. Hanging like a shining jewel. Reflecting silver to gold this stout chrysalis is about 1.8 cm long and has a metallic look. The pupal stage lasts for about two weeks. In the later stages of development the butterfly can be seen through the transparent pupal skin. Click on the image above for in-depth information on the Oleander Butterfly. - Photo: B Hulbert.
	And whilst we are at the Oleander bush take a look at this incredible little Lynx spider perched on an Oleander blossom. The Caterpillar stage of the Common Crow or Oleander Butterfly, also on the Oleander bush in our backyard. Photos: Ian Walker.
The Huntsman Spider is not dangerous even though some of them are the size of your hand - unfortunately these spiders love to come indoors. I for one, wish they would stay out side where they belong. Photo: Ian Walker.
	This incredible close up photo of a Stick Insect's head taken in our garden, reminds me of a lobster. When seen in perspective amongst the foliage it is very hard to distinguish it from leaves and twigs - just another one of natures wondrous creations. Photo: Ian Walker.
I suspect these Crickets are kept under control by the many frogs and birds in our garden. Photo: Ian Walker.
Keeping a section of your garden a bit wild fosters the influx of many insects that in turn attract frogs, who in turn attract birds and snakes. We love the birds but are really not fond of the dangerous snakes [sorry snake lovers]. Spreading wood ash around the perimeter of the garden stops the snakes from visiting. Snakes won't transverse wood ash. That stops the ground dwelling snakes. The tree snakes are another matter as they cross the borders of our garden via the tree canopy. As tree snakes are not venomous, we are not too concerned with their presence.
	Great Hairy Fly. I think even the flys are beautiful - up close. We also have pesky mosquitoes, sand flys, wasps, the odd hornet and many beautiful butterflies, lace wings, dragonflies and cicadas.