Macro Costa Rica

20/11/2024

When you go peaking under leaves and browsing through bushes, you just never know what you will find. Spiders are some of my very favorite subjects. They exhibit an almost human-like sense of curiosity and they often face you to take a good look when you are rooting around. It gives such a sense of connection as you both stare into each other's eyes.

28/10/2024

There really is wonder all around us every day. Take a moment, smell the flowers; appreciate the tiny treasures that allow us all to coexist in such harmony.

Gymnetis stellata is a species of scarab beetle in the family Scarabaeidae, notable for its striking yellow and black coloration, often featuring distinct spots and patterns. Commonly found in Central and South America, it inhabits tropical and subtropical regions where it plays a crucial role as a decomposer. This beetle primarily feeds on decaying plant material and is often attracted to fermented fruits, where adults feed and lay eggs. The larvae develop in decomposing organic matter, contributing to nutrient cycling and soil enrichment. By breaking down organic material, G. stellata supports ecosystem health, enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth. Its presence helps maintain ecological balance by aiding in the decomposition process, an essential function in its native habitats.

G. stellata
Escazu, CR - 10/28/24

OM-1
M.Zuiko 90mm
Godox V860iii
AK Diffuser
27 shot stack (Helicon + LR)

21/08/2024

A wonderful chance encounter with a gorgeous mother of 40. I just can't tell you how much this one made me smile. I thought I was just getting a snap of a gorgeous Wolf Spider in portfolio but I found out upon processing that she had a cluster of young ones riding on her back.

Such a special treat for me. What a beautiful face.

SJ, CR - 8/20/24
Wolf Spider with babies

OM-1 + M.Zuiko 90 F3.5 + Godox 860III + AK Diffuser
Helicon Focus and Lightroom post

19 image stack - 1/100, f5.6, ISO200

25/06/2024

Julian Assange freed? Wow, I really didn't think they were going to let him see the light of day. Miracles are real! We could not be happier for the entire Assange family. Enjoy your freedom, you brave and dedicated soul!

The world needs more courage and commitment like this. Be strong in your convictions. Be true to your word. Be good and honest in all you do... 🙏

Julian Assange to be sentenced at a hearing on the island of Saipan Wednesday; WikiLeaks founder’s wife says he will seek a US pardon

18/06/2024

After an exhilarating day exploring the majestic peaks of Cerro Pico Blanco with the best hiking group a person could hope for, we encountered a breathtaking sight on our way back. A magnificent Red-tailed Hawk appeared, gliding in perfect harmony with our truck as if time itself had paused.

The hawk then perched on a nearby tree, daring me to capture its beauty. Embracing the challenge, I quickly pulled over, hazard lights flashing, and quietly slipped out of the driver's seat, attempting to blend in with the surroundings. Holding my breath, I inched towards the back of my vehicle, praying not to spook this majestic subject.

After what felt like an eternity, I reached the back and gently lifted the gate, reaching for my trusty camera. Sliding over to the passenger side of the vehicle for a better view, under the watchful gaze of my adoring wife, I managed to capture a burst of shots just as the hawk decided to make its getaway. It perched one last time, looking back over its shoulder as if to say, "Ha, you almost had me," before gracefully swooping off into a picture-perfect backdrop of Costa Rican heaven.

Though the story outshines the shot, I'm thrilled to have had even a fleeting moment with this majestic beauty. What a monster! What an absolute treasure.

Cerro Pico Blanco, CR - 6/16/24

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11/06/2024

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/article/what-are-animals-thinking-feature?cmpid=org=ngp::mc=social::src=whatsapp::cmp=editorial::add=a20240611magzine-animals-thinking

Rats show kindness, orcas mourn their dead, and monkeys protest injustice. Scientists are learning that other species also have complex emotions.

20/05/2024

Collared Redstart
Prusia, Cartago, CR
5/19/24

We caught this little friendly beauty as we were leaving. It seemed to have very little fear of us and was more than willing to strike a pose for me.

07/05/2024

A gorgeous Longhorn Beetle found after work yesterday. I stopped by for 10 minutes on my way home and was lucky enough to come face-to-face with this lovely gem.

You just never know what you'll find when you go looking.

Escazu, CR.

30/04/2024

Black-cheeked woodpecker?

Braulio Carrillo National Park, Barva Volcano - 4/29/24

02/04/2024

What a treat to see a male common basilisk basking in the sun, soaking up all that energy. This was one of the most amazing hikes I've done here.