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Home » Forums » Photo Focus Groups

Litter critters

I am looking for a few of you great photographers (definitely does not include me) out there to aim your lenses at litter critters. We get a preponderance of images of stuff that is out in the open, but relatively few of the cryptic fauna associated with the leaf/treehole/forest litter habitat. These habitats harbor some really interesting species. It would be extremely nice to see some high-quality images of the fauna associated with these microhabitats.

Grab some litter, spread it on a white bed sheet/pillow case (preferably in sunlight), watch for movement. You'll see (and be able to photograph) some really interesting things. Gently put the litter back where it came from. We'll all learn something.

Thanks.
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Contributed by Jeff Gruber on 19 July, 2008 - 11:19pm
Last updated 20 July, 2008 - 11:18am

You're right.
I built a litter sifter that I haven't employed much since I used it on wrack heaps at the ocean last September. I want to try it on a variety of habitats.

Another technique is to use a sheet of plastic rather than a cloth sheet. This has the advantage of being more easily cleaned and can be used on a wider variety of substances such as animal remains, slimy mushroom patches, pond edge litter, even cow pies.
… Jim McClarin, 21 July, 2008 - 5:32am login or register to post comments

Sounds like...
a great idea! I recently submitted some images of a Bristletail (Microcoryphia) which I found under an old piece of tree bark. I really would like to start getting high quality images of Springtails as well as whatever else is moving about in the leaf litter.
… Preston Scott Justis, 20 July, 2008 - 8:05pm login or register to post comments

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