Two dragonflies

 

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

 

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2 Responses to Two dragonflies

  1. birthe says:

    They’re so beautiful and for once insects I appreciate. Could they have come early because of the unseasonable warmth we’re experiencing?

  2. Gail Frampton says:

    We have several dragonflies in our area. nice to know what they eat!
    Thanks again Alistair for the beautiful photos and information!

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