Breaking Out

[wigz]

I found these in the garden this morning. I'm not sure what is happening here. I first thought they were hatching out of the eggs but then I noticed that they also seem to be shedding their exoskeletons. Would they be doing both at much the same time or do they hang around the egg cases for a while. Any information welcomed.

There seems to have been a lack of insects and spiders around here over the last few years. At one time I would find something to photograph any morning I looked, but the pickings have been lean lately.


Nikon D800, Sigma 150mm f/2.8

[MEK]

Very nice ...

[Sully]

Cool capture Alan .... I can't help you with any details, sorry ...

[eaglem]

Good catch.....................

[wigz]

Thanks MEK, Barb and eaglem

[MarkB1]

They do congregate around their place of origin, the egg casing. I expect they would all hatch at the same time so hatching and molting at same time doesn't seem right. There might be more than one hatch site. They can often be seen herding around the mother, and she protects them from other predators. Two broods might join up?

Nice capture.

[wigz]

Thanks Mark. I had a look at your web site - you have many great shots there.