A few years ago, I photographed this tiny grasshopper nymph on a black-eyed susan flower.  At the time of this photo, I don’t think the nymph was aware of the crab spider it was sharing the flower with…

This tiny grasshopper nymph seems unaware of the crab spider waiting in ambush on the other side of the flower.

Just a moment later, the spider turned slightly toward the nymph, and gave itself away.  The nymph lurched backward and then hopped away.  I just managed to capture the blur of the nymph’s initial lurch (below).

The spider showed its hand (legs) a little early and the nymph made its escape.

It’s a dangerous world out there.  A guy can’t even relax on a flower and enjoy the sunshine…

Enjoy your Thanksgiving this week.  (And remember to check behind the couch before you plop down after your big meal!)