Nov 18, 2022
The Pyrenean populations of Megabunus diadema are quite unique. In other places where it is well established (Scandinavia, UK, Ireland, and Northern France) males are rare due to the ability for females to reproduce via facultative parthenogenesis. In the Pyrenees, the sex-ratio is largely in favor of males, sometimes making up 70% of total individuals or more. (D'Amico)
Only one female observed (4th img) when I visited Cauterets last summer, and also the only individual to bear a little frontal spine, which is allegedly an uncommon variation.
I wish I could find more of these long-legged pixies but four in a day is already a treat. :o)
