It has been a few years since I last saw a Mocha Emerald dragonfly (Somatochlora linearis), so I was excited when I spotted one yesterday while exploring at Huntley Meadows Park. The male Mocha Emerald was patrolling along above a small stream in a way that is typical, but infuriating—he would fly a bit and then hover, but before I could focus on him, he would fly some more, each time moving again before I could catch up to him. Fortunately, Mocha Emeralds perch pretty often and I was absolutely thrilled when this one chose a perch within sight of where I was standing.
As you look at the photos, you cannot help but notice that the dragonfly’s body long, dark, and skinny body, although you eyes may well be drawn first to his brilliant emerald eyes. You may also note that he does not really perch, but instead hangs from the branch to relax. The position reminds me of the one what I assume when I am doing pull-ups and definitely would not be my preferred position for resting.
I am often surprised by the amazing diversity in the dragonfly world. When I first started to focus on dragonflies, it was obvious that they came in different colors. As I have learned more about dragonflies and photographed them, I have grown more attuned to body shapes, behavior, and habitats. Yes, I am somewhat obsessed with these beautiful creatures and enjoy searching for hours for little jewels like this Mocha Emerald.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
I really like that close-up. Their wings are so pretty.
Thanks, Dan. What you can’t tell from the photo was that the dragonfly was in almost complete shade, so my shutter speed had dropped to a level that many of my shots were blurry. I was happy to be able to have a few shots that I could adjust a bit to be able to bring out some of the wonderful details.
Can you imagine doing this with a film camera?
There was a certain amount of post-production work that could rescue some film photos, but I don’t think I would have been able to capture this image with a film camera.
Wowza! I really love this kind of dragonfly, it’s a beauty! Specially the green eyes and the wings! When I made the photos the biggest, I showed Gem all of the body parts. His head, thorax, segmented abdomen and everything else. Did you know that dragonflies breathe through teensy holes in their abdomen and not through a nose or mouth like us? Isn’t that amazing? Thank you, Mr. Mike!
Thanks, Benjamin. I am glad you like today’s Mocha Emerald dragonfly. I am impressed that you know so much about the parts of the dragonfly. I actually did not know that dragonflies breathe through holes in their abdomens–thanks for telling me. I love learning new things, especially about dragonflies.
Very Nice Mike! I never saw one before! It is amazing how many types & colors there are!
What incredible photos, every detail on the wings is so clear. Awesomeness. Thank you Mike, for sharing your explanations as well they add a beautiful richness to your amazing photos.🙏😊
Thanks, Suzette. Sometimes my photos are merely an excuse for me to write something, but most often the words help viewers to understand what I am showing in the images.
Truly stunning photos, Mike, as always. I am so very glad you take such an avid interest in dragonflies, for your joy and photos have definitely drawn me into them, too. Enjoyed, too, hearing about your pursuit.
Thanks, Jet. I enjoy this niche area of photography and have developed a certain degree of expertise. It is cool to be able to share my experiences with others and help them to see some of the differences among the species, much like what a lot of avid birders do.
Gorgeous dragonfly. Thanks!
Thanks, Molly. The colors are not as spectacular as some that I have photographed, but I find this dragonfly to be stunningly handsome.
The diversity in the dragonfly spectrum is really spectacular, and it seems that the variety is practically limitless. Again, my thanks for yet another new one, and such a beauty!
Thanks, Gary. I am blessed to live in an area that has a great variety of species. If I were willing to venture farther in Virginia, I could find some additional species, but so far the local ones are more than enough to keep me occupied.
Such lacy wings and striking eyes! I can see why you are attracted to these, Mike.
Thanks, Chris. I usually see these dragonflies in situations in which they are flying between patches of light and shadows and those eyes seem to shine in the darkness as they are coming towards me.
I love these shots—the way the leaves mirror the dragonfly wings. And the colours of the leaves, too.
Thanks, Louella. It is a generally a happy coincidence when the colors and patterns of a subject are matched by those in the background. It sure did work out well in this case.
Very cool and nicely shot.