While walking along one of the roads in Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas, I came across a Millipede crossing the road. These fascinating creatures are a common sight in the forest, and are known to feed on decaying leaves and dead plant matter. Some species of millipedes also consume fungi or suck fluids from plants, while a small number are predatory. Overall, millipedes pose no threat to humans.
To capture this image, I had my Canon EOS 7D Mark II with a Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens attached, which I held in my hand. I also used a Blackrapid Camera strap to ensure that my camera was secure and easily accessible.
Millipedes are known for their numerous legs, with most species having between 30 and 400 legs. They are often mistaken for Centipedes, which have fewer legs but are more agile and are predators that can bite and inject venom. In contrast, millipedes are not venomous and their many legs make them slow-moving and clumsy, which helps them avoid most predators.
Overall, I am grateful for the opportunity to capture this image of a Millipede crossing the road in the beautiful Ouachita National Forest. It’s moments like this that remind me of the incredible diversity of wildlife and the natural world, and I hope to continue sharing these experiences with others through my photography.
Camera Settings
- AV Mode
- Aperture: f5.6
- ISO: 1000
- Shutter speed: 1/320 of a second
- -.03 exposure value
- Focal Length: 400 mm