Lynette... this specimen did lose a leg because of me. It was quite breezy on this particular day, and the only way I could get the fly to stay still was to physically move it to a new location where it was more calm. In the process, I accidentally broke one of its legs, and I felt bad. :( But thanks for pointing that out. You have a great eye for detail. :)

Was this a chilled specimen? I can't get anywhere near these things, let alone move them.

I've had my share of bug accidents as well. I was photographing a baby mantid just the other day and scared it right into a spider's web!

Not sure what you mean about "chilled specimen." I love bugs, plus I grew up with brothers, so I'm really into the outdoors and adventure - very risk-taking - a daredevil you could say. I know what you mean about bug accidents. I've had my share of painful bites/stings, but "no pain, no gain." Gotta love nature. :)

I meant you cooled it in the fridge. :) Some people do that in order to get good shots of "flighty" bugs.

No... I surely didn't do that! I would feel terrible chilling an insect, unless the insect was already dead. Doesn't that temporarily paralyze it? :)

as far I know. It's the same thing that happens to insects over a cold night. I've never tried it, myself, but I don't think it's ever harmed any bugs. I think you put it in the fridge for about 15 min. and then pull it out. BUT like I said, I've never done it.

Wait, I did try it once....poor memory....on a spider and it didn't slow that guy down at all...and I haven't tried since.