It seemed a bit early to see the first dragonflies of the season, but there they were. And a welcome sight they were. These acrobatic aerial predators are especially partial to mosquitoes, flies, mayflies, midges, and gnats. If the insect flies, a dragonfly captures and eats it. A summer at the beach greatly benefits from the predation of dragonflies.
There are quite a few species of dragonflies. Here are two seen today.
Saffron-winged meadowhawk
Eight-spotted skimmer
They’re so beautiful and for once insects I appreciate. Could they have come early because of the unseasonable warmth we’re experiencing?
We have several dragonflies in our area. nice to know what they eat!
Thanks again Alistair for the beautiful photos and information!