While searching for reptiles and amphibians on the slopes of the Tungurahua volcano, Javier came across this dazzling pair of jewel weevils.
It took him many attempts to keep their tiny forms, just millimetres long, in focus as they travelled along the plant’s spiralling tendril. The striking metallic colours of these weevils may be a form of water droplet mimicry, a cunning defence in this humid forest habitat, deeming them uninteresting to passing predators. After several hours mating, the female will use its long rostrum, or nose, to bore a hole into the plant, laying eggs inside so the larvae will hatch surrounded by food.
Spain
Javier is a Spanish biologist and wildlife and conservation photographer who focuses on the natural history, science and conservation of smaller animals. He is an Emerging League Photographer at the International League of Conservation Photographers and believes that the power of photography can be used to help conserve our planet and the animals and plants that live on it.
Help us harness the power of photography to advance scientific knowledge, spread awareness of important issues and nurture a global love for nature.
