During a brief trip to Massachusetts last weekend, I photographed this beautiful damselfly, which I believe is an immature female Eastern Forktail damselfly (Ischnura verticalis), while exploring Horn Pond in Woburn.
When I looked at the range map for this species, it looked like it is not present in my home area of Northern Virginia. However, when I did a search of my blog postings, I was surprised to discover that I had previously photographed an orange Eastern Forktail at one of my favorite local spots. Obviously I am not someone who keeps a “life list” of all the species that I have seen and photographed. 🙂
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Great photo, Mike!
I just have to smile as I’m looking at this lovely damselfly. Not only because it is a splendid photo, but because it reminds me of a recent adventuring discovery with Benjamin. We were walking along the edge of a small stream in the woods when I spied something perched on some leaves. I told Benjamin to quickly look at this dragonfly, which he did. He shook his head and told me : “Gem, that’s a damselfly! It’s wings are not spread apart like a dragonfly sitting.” I had forgotten that fact, but Benjamin had not! He is on vacation this week, but will love to see this beauty next week. Thank-you, Mr. Mike!!
Enjoy the holiday this week. Benjamin never fails to impress me with the way in which he retains information. Like you, I am at an age at which I sometimes forget things. 🙂
Very nice Mike, I’ve just done a post on damsels as well! Great minds.
Wow. I checked out your post and saw that you captured images of some real beauties, including a wonderful spreadwing. I chuckled when I read your description about shooting with a zoom lens vice a macro lens–I often face the same choice.
With the changes in our climate I’m pretty sure all the known ranges change…almost yearly. Yesterday I found 3 species that even 4 years ago came nowhere near this area. Now they are here year round.
Very Nice Mike! Love the detail you captured!