As their name suggests, Autumn Meadowhawks (Sympetrum vicinum) appear later in the year than most other dragonflies. This past weekend I spotted quite a number of mating pairs, including this couple that I captured in an acrobatic position worthy of the Cirque du Soleil. The dramatic lighting and colorful background added to the theatrical feel of the image, as all the elements worked together to focus our attention on the performance.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Nice shot!
Thanks, Allen. It’s amazing to me that the flaming red Autumn Meadowhawks and Blue-faced Meadowhawks show up at a time of the year when many of the familiar dragonflies of the summer have already disappeared. To everything, there is a season….
What an amazing shot! Can’t believe it!! Thank you! 🙂
Love the dark blue background contrast with the red meadowhawks.
Beautiful, if a little voyeuristic. I guess they don’t mind being watched though 🙂
Yes, it does feel a little voyeuristic, but it looks so unusual and acrobatic that it’s mesmerizing–it’s hard to look away.