I was thrilled yesterday to see that at least one Swift Setwing dragonfly (Dythemis velox) is still present at Jackson Miles Abbott Wetland Refuge. Based on past records, the Swift Setwings should be with us at least until the end of September, but this has been a crazy year weatherwise, so I never know whether the different dragonflies will appear and disappear on schedule.
If you look really closely at the wings of this dragonfly, you’ll discover some really cool shapes and patterns—-not all of the individual “cells” in the wings are of the same shape and size. Together they form an intricate mosaic that reminds me of a stained glass window. (I encourage you to click on the image to see it in higher resolution.)
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
Mike Powell 
Just one more of the intricacies of the dragonflies to amaze us. Nice capture, Mike!
This image really highlights the intricate beauty of those wings. They do make me think of a stained glass window, especially with the slightly opaque highlights in the “panels.”
Perfectly beautiful in every way Mike!
They say the insects out number us on the earth. Based on that fact, I have always wondered where do all those wings go in the end? Why don’t we see more just lying around? Great shot!
Thanks, Molly. That is a great question. I have only seen dragonfly wings a few times when I have been wandering about in the wild. In those cases, I think the dragonfly had been eaten by a predator relatively recently, possibly by another dragonfly. Dragonflies are so small and light that I suspect that their bodies are blown away or drop to the ground or in the water and are hidden by vegetation or debris. It is a bit of a mystery.
Lovely image! The intricate and detailed pattern is amazing
One of nature’s amazing works of art! Nice work, Mike.