Some of the common species of dragonflies are around throughout much of the summer. Other dragonflies, sometimes referred to as “spring ephemeral” dragonflies, are around for only brief periods of time in the early spring, like this male Blue Corporal dragonfly (Ladona deplanata) that I spotted last week on the boardwalk at my local marsh.
I had never seen this species before, but fortunately my fellow blogger and local dragonfly expert, Walter Sanford, was able to assist me with the identification. Check out his blog to see some awesome shots of dragonflies and other nature subjects.
I would love to be able to photograph this species the next time in a more natural environment, but I am pretty excited any time I have the chance to get a recognizable photo of a new species.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
It’s always fun to see something in nature that you’ve never seen. I like the color of this one.
Good catch, Mike! As far as I know, no one has spotted a Blue Corporal dragonfly at Huntley Meadows Park anywhere other than the “way back” during the past two- to three years. Good to see one perching on the boardwalk!
Thanks, Walter. I didn’t know what kind of dragonfly I had photographed until I looked at the images on my computer and only then realized it was a type that I hadn’t seen before. Thanks again for the help with identifying it.
On the other hand, his blue color stands out nicely against the gray boards. Nice photos, Mike.
It’s certainly a mixed blessing to have a dragonfly on the boardwalk. Unless I see a dragonfly actually land, it’s often tough to spot one in the vegetation. On the boardwalk I can usually see it from a distance and can approach slowly.
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