Visit the Photo Gallery

Visit our Image Gallery where you will find more than 1000 photographs of South African insects. Almost all photographs are of live insects in their natural habitat. All have been grouped in their respective insect orders. Most are identified with comprehensive captions. As an ongoing project the image galleries are regularly updated.

Dung Beetles

Ranging from minuscule little creatures to over 50cm in size these specialised insects perform an invaluable service by breaking down and disposing of waste material in the wild. Their work also greatly assists in fertilising the ground.

Identifying Insects

We will gladly assist in attempting to identify specimens but please do see our instructions and disclaimer.

Thinking Macro

One of the first lessons the aspiring close-range photographer needs to learn involves a total change of mind-set, a different way of seeing and experiencing things.

Get the Book

Lambert Smith's new book Remarkable Insects of South Africa is now available at all major bookstores or get your copy direct from the publishers.

The Harlequin – a killer ladybird

A highly destructive alien Ladybird is rapidly invading South Africa! You can help trace its progress.

Harlequin Ladybird (Harmonia axyridis )

Who can say that they have never been enthralled by a child with a brightly coloured ladybird perched on a finger while singing "Ladybird ladybird fly away - come again another day". The Harlequin is one ladybird we would rather not see in our gardens.