I think there is a perfect correlation between how much time I spend outside and how many odonates hatch. The correlation is, unfortunately, negative.
I believe they waited until I got busy and hatched all at once. Halloween Pennants, Spotted Skimmers of all types, Widow Skimmers, Pondhawks, Clubtails, and of course, Darners have suddenly decided to persecute me. No time for pictures or even a short walk in the woods or along the marshes. Black Saddlebags…both Common and Prince Baskettails…Bluets, Spreadwings, Rubyspots, and of course the Ebony Jewelwings. Grrr…
At least this little Eastern Amberwing decided to hold still enough for me to take a shot with my stupid phone camera. You see, they wait until my battery dies or I leave the camera in the car. They know. They mock me. Perithemis showed compassion.
This is one of the smallest skimmers around…always less than an inch long. This guy (it is a male) is guarding his personal vegetation mat with the tenacity of Lindsay Lohan guarding her blow-filled Coach bag. A few Widow Skimmers came by but the Amberwing chased them away and went right back to his pad.
I always root for the underdragon. Go P. tenera!
And now…off to Door County for the 8th Annual Door County Sea Kayak Symposium. Pictures to come for sure.
Respectfully submitted,
Canoelover