On July 14, 2015, I spotted a Walking Stick Insect while walking near a garden along the edge of the Ouachita National Forest in Arkansas. It was perched on a weathered fence post, motionless and perfectly camouflaged. The moment offered a chance to see and photograph one of nature’s most skillful illusionists.
Wildlife Notes: Walking Stick Insect
Walking Stick Insects are best known for their camouflage. Their twig-like bodies and still posture allow them to disappear in plain sight, avoiding predators and even curious observers. This individual blended seamlessly with the wood grain of the fence post. Only its faint stripes and antennae hinted at its true identity.
In Arkansas, these insects thrive in wooded habitats such as the Ouachita National Forest. They are gentle herbivores, feeding on leaves, and their presence signals a balanced environment. Since they are mostly nocturnal, finding one during the day is a stroke of luck. Encounters like this highlight the hidden diversity that surrounds us, even at the forest edge.
Photography Notes: Photographing A Walking Stick Insect
The insect’s stillness and natural stage gave me the chance to capture the shot with clarity. I used a Canon EOS 7D Mark II paired with a Canon EF100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens. My settings were:
- Aperture: ƒ/5.6
- Shutter Speed: 1/200
- ISO: 1000
A shallow depth of field isolated the insect from the soft garden and forest background. The texture of the fence post contrasted with the delicate body of the Walking Stick, enhancing its camouflage while keeping the subject sharp.
For other photographers, the key takeaway is patience and awareness. Many wildlife subjects reveal themselves only when you slow down and look closely. Using a telephoto lens helps capture detail without disturbing the subject, while balancing ISO and aperture keeps the shot clean in natural light.
The Walking Stick Insect in Arkansas is a reminder that nature’s marvels often hide in plain view. Through observation, we learn about the roles these creatures play in their ecosystems. Through photography, we find ways to share those hidden moments with others.
I have written about these insects before after discovering one on my deck near this same area: Walking Stick Insect On My Deck