In late spring the Publilia treehoppers appear, tended by ants. At this time of year, their spiny nymphs can be seen, also jealously guarded by ants. Why? Because the ants just adore the honeydew droplets that the treehoppers, adults and nymphs, secrete. They prod the hoppers to get them to produce this sugary delight. In return, the ants protect the treehoppers. When I took these photos, the ants swarmed over my hands and camera. They guard their honeydew supply seriously!