Category: Insects

Back in the Black Hills

Post author By Doug Backlund
Post date August 11, 2021

And right in the middle of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Actually, it wasn’t too bad getting here. On the interstate, I could see what appeared to be an exodus of motorcycles and vehicles towing motorcycles going east, I’m not sure why everyone seems to be leaving early but it is OK with me. I drove through Custer State Park and the town of Custer with no problems. Shortly after arriving at my campsite and getting setup, I notice the truck had another flat tire. I’m sure getting tired of those. I have had more flat tires in the last two years than I usually get in ten years. I got the spare on and will find a place to fix the flat when I go to town.

Summer form of the Eastern Comma, on Farm Island, last week.

Male Band-winged Meadowhawk. There were dozens of these around my folks place near Pierre while I was there.

This is a female Band-winged Meadowhawk.

Birding Blacklighting Insects Photography

More Blacklighting

I decided to try the black light last night. This works best on dark, warm, humid nights. The moon is nearly full but it was certainly warm and humid. I got a few interesting insects. Birding is slow, a male Cassin’s Finch has found my feeder and comes in regularly, but nothing else does. I am sure glad I’m where I’m at because it has to be hot down on the plains if it is this hot here.

This is a mantispid, also known as a mantisfly. I’ve never seen them before and according to BugGuide this is a first for South Dakota. I had several come in last night. Most likely it is *Dicromantispa sayi*.

This moth is *Eubaphe mendica*, The Beggar. It gets its name from the spots which resemble holes in a beggar’s clothing. Also a first BugGuide record for South Dakota.

Blacklighting Insects Photography

Blacklight at the Slim Buttes

Post author By Doug Backlund
Post date July 14, 2021

Something I’ve wanted to do since I got here is set up the black light for nocturnal insects. It has been too windy most nights. I have to use a white sheet (for a collecting surface and photography) illuminated by the black light. Wind just makes it very difficult. I had one good night and even then, it was quite cool so not as much activity as I hope for. I still did pretty good.