As I was observing this Slender Spreadwing damselfly (Lestes rectangularis) earlier this week, it suddenly launched into a series of acrobatic maneuvers worthy of an Olympic gymnast on the high bar. I captured several action shots of the routine, possibly related to laying eggs, although I managed my clearest shot when the damselfly returned to its starting position and waited for the scores from the judges.
Pointing the toes for maximum extension
Swinging back to generate greater velocity for the next trick
Finishing up the routine
Waiting for the scores from the judges
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
Mike Powell 
Mike, you are too funny. Debbie
It’s crazy sometimes trying to figure out what animals and insects are doing, so it’s easier to make up a story.
Amazing!
Perfect story for those photos. I was half expecting to see a dragonfly judge holding up a score card.
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Funny! I don’t know why but I’m always amazed by how much we don’t know about nature.
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Excellent..!!!
Thanks.