docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

I noticed that a few Hoggers are going back in their archives and posting some of their favorite photos with the cold weather setting in. The dragons and damsels have died off or departed with the first hard frost so I decided to post a few beetles from past shoots. I have a few others but haven't been able to identify them as of yet so I've enlisted the help of Mark.
This beetle was shot in Costa Rica. These relatives of our Marmorated Stink Bugs feed on the juices sucked from the stems of tobacco, potato, sunflower, eggplant and rice.
Red-bordered Stink Bug, (Edessa rufomarginata) by Tony Schoch, on Flickr
The second was shot locally when I lived in PA. It feeds on Dogbane and occasionally on Milkweed as it is here. It was a difficult shot for me with the iridescence and the fact that is was constantly on the move.
Dogbane Leaf Beetle (Chrysochus auratus) by Tony Schoch, on Flickr
This last one was also shot in Costa Rica. Fungus Beetle refers to their main dietary item which may come as no surprise, fungus. The bright red blotches against a black background is aposematic, or warning coloration. If molested or attacked, the Pleasing Fungus Beetle emits a foul-smelling odor that would cause most would be predators to back off.
Pleasing (Aposematic) Fungus Beetle (Cypherotylus asperus) by Tony Schoch, on Flickr
I may post a few more if we come up with an identification or I may just post for the fun of it. Have a great day and Christmas holiday all!
-Doc

Bmac Loc: Long Island, NY

Nice photos.

rwilson1942 Loc: Houston, TX

docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

Thanks Bmac. Glad you enjoyed. I used to live in your area a while back. I taught at Freeport HS.
-Doc

docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

Thanks for looking in Rick and for the thumb up!
-Doc

kpmac Loc: Ragley, La

A nice set, Doc.

docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

Thanks Ken. I really appreciate you looking in and commenting. Merry Christmas!
-Doc

DOOK Loc: Maclean, Australia

Good ones, Doc--very colorful.

Dixiegirl Loc: Alabama gulf coast

Always first class shots and information, Doc! What a beautiful, colorful collection..but I'll bet they're all stinkers!

Swamp-Cork Loc: Lanexa, Virginia

Excellent images and info, Doc!

docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

Thank you Earl. Yes they are very colorful little creatures. Cheers and Merry Christmas.
-Doc

docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

Yes they can be stinkers. I remember shooting a millipede in the Shenandoahs in VA. Smelled this horrible odor and was sick for two days. Cyanide!
Thanks Donna for looking in. I always appreciate your feedback. Have a wonderful Christmas!
-Doc

docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

Hey Corky thanks so much. I always appreciate you taking the time to leave your comments on my work. Hoping you and yours have a very Merry Christmas.
-Doc

rlaugh Loc: Michigan & Florida

Excellent Doc!!

nimbushopper Loc: Tampa, FL

Nice set Doc!