Ziggy Spider

Lam Soon Tak's Image

Lam Soon Tak (Malaysia) spots a vibrantly coloured David Bowie spider carrying an egg sac.

Lam was exploring the highlands of Malaysia when he came across this spider perched on broken branches beside a river.

The bright, white disc of eggs in the spider’s jaws and its orange body stood out against the lush green moss.

The David Bowie spider is found in Malaysia, Singapore and the Indonesian island of Sumatra.

It was named in 2008 by arachnologist and Bowie fan Dr Peter Jäger. He thought the striking markings up to the spider’s head region resembled the make-up worn by the singer during the 1970s.

Behind the lens

Lam Soon Tak

Lam Soon Tak

Malaysia

Lam’s journey into the world of photography began during his undergraduate years in 2003, when he discovered his love for the art of capturing moments in time. Since then, he’s dedicated himself to exploring the diverse ecosystems of Malaysia, armed with his camera and an unyielding curiosity for the tiny inhabitants that often go unnoticed. His expertise in macro photography allows him to magnify the beauty of insects and other small creatures, revealing a world of intricate patterns and mesmerising colours.

Image details

  • Nikon Z 8
  • 105mm f2.8 lens
  • 1/125 at f20  •   ISO 250  •   multiple flashes + DIY diffusers
  • Cameron Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia
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