Lerps are interesting to look out for, in this case present on a mopane leaf.
Lerps are made up from crystallized honeydew which is produced by psyllid bugs larvae. They appear cyst-like, are highly nutritional, consisting mainly of carbohydrates, the cysts protecting the larvae inside. Birds, monkeys and even humans can consume the lerps. The vervet monkeys in particular enjoy feeding on lerps. There are several hundred species of lerp.
Words and pictures by Christine Wagner.