Ptecticus testaceus is a colorful Neotropical soldier fly (family: Stratiomyidae) featuring a yellow-brown body and striking compound eyes. Found across Central and South America, including countries like Costa Rica, Brazil, and Argentina. The larvae of Ptecticus flies are often called “compost flies” because they thrive in decaying plant matter like rotting vegetation, grass clippings, fermenting fruit, and compost. But their adult lives tell a very different story. Once they mature, these tiny flies become gentle flower visitors, feeding only on nectar and quietly helping with pollination. I came across this beautiful little fly during my very first photography trip to the Amazon rainforest in Yasuní National Park. What caught my attention immediately were her extraordinary eyes—absolutely mesmerizing up close. She seemed surprisingly patient too, staying still long enough for me to capture several truly stunning photographs.