Last week I spotted my first Spangled Skimmer dragonfly (Libellula cyanea) of the year at Occoquan Regional Park in nearby Lorton, Virginia. It is remarkable easy to identify this species, because it is the only dragonfly in our area that has both black and white stigmata.
The stigmata, or pterostigmata, which is the more technical name, are the pigmented hollow structures on the leading edge of dragonfly wings. They are slightly heavier than the adjoining cells and have a significant effect on the aerodynamics of the wing, particularly while gliding, according to an article entitled “Dragonfly wings: tried and tested over millennia!” I confess that I don’t understand aerodynamics at all and look at dragonfly flight as nothing short of miraculous (and magical).
I am starting to see more and more dragonflies each time that I go out with my camera. I enjoy returning to familiar spots, observing the yearly cycle of emerging creatures. With all of the chaos swirling in the world, there is something reassuring about this cycle that continues on with some degree of predictability.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Terrific photo, Mike!Blue Rock HorsesFrederick County, Virginiabluerockhorses.com
Exquisite photo, Mike. I also liked the stigmata information, thank you.
Yet again you have provided me with an education, Mike, as I had no idea about dragonfly wing structures or aerodynamics. What I really appreciate about this portrait is how the whole image seems to glow.
I had just returned from a solitary nature walk and met up with a neighbor. As we were chatting multiple dragonflies darted hither and yon. They were moving so fast that I was unable to identify the species, but we enjoyed their presence. So, here I now find myself enjoying your lovely photo and commentary. “A dragonfly arrives and leaves like a change of mind.” – David Mitchell, “The Bone Clocks.” Thank-you, Mr. Mike!! P.S. I am so happy that you were able to read my comment in the Unicorn Clubtail post and hope that you saw yesterday’s too!
I’ve been a bit distracted the last few days, but was delighted to finally read your comments, Ellen. I have been a bit irregular in my posting the past months, so I don’t get as many comments as in the past, and very few of them are as substantive and thought-provoking as yours are. Thanks.
very beautifull 👍