In May I posted a photo on Twitter I figured it was just another Dragonfly, fortunately for me Nature photographer Kerri Far (@KerriFar) let me know it was it fact a Damselfly. Thus began my fact finding journey into determining the difference between the two.
A quick glance at my photographs and it is the wings. The Damselfly wings lay parallel their body when at rest, Dragonfly wings stay out stretched. On closer inspections the hindwing of the Dragonfly broadens at the base and is stubbier, while the hindwing of the Damselfly is similar to the forewing. It is however when you look into their eyes you see the Dragonfly eyes a set together, but the Dameselfly eyes are set apart.
Insect Group Odonata
The group is divided into two distinct sub-orders, Zygoptera/Damselflies and Anisoptera/Dragonflies.
Zygoptera/Damselflies – Means paired-wings’ i.e. All four wings are for the most part equal in size and shape. Damselflies are small, delicate flying insects that usually stay near to the water.
Anisoptera/Dragonflies – means ‘unequal-winged’i.e Rear or hind wings are generally shorter and broader than forewings. Dragonflies are much larger than the damsels and can often be found flying far from water.
I Love learning new things, Nature has so much to teach us all.
Much Love,
Lee
Southern Spreadwing (Lestes australis), male Dragonfly
HSNP Ricks Pond Blue Dragonfly
Tufa Terrace Rose Hips Blue Dragonfly
HSNP Ricks Pond Green Dragonfly
Hot Springs Mountain Trail Dragonfly
Dead Chief Trail Dragonfly
Floral Trail Common Blue Damselfly
Floral Trail ebony jewelwing damselfly
Gulpha Creek Black Winged Damselfly
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Just spectacular, Lee … Really!
Thank You Mark, I enjoy the journey of knowledge and discovery :o)
Enjoying the cooler weather
Kindest Thoughts and Wishes,
Lee
Wonderful shots Lee! And thanks so much for mentioning me 😉 I appreciate your kindness!
Amazing what you can capture with an old Sony compact camera. I have been wishing I had a macro lens… but that is coming very soon :o)
THANK YOU! for telling me about Damselflies
Kindest Thoughts and Wishes,
Lee
Lovely pictures,lv dragonfly,butterfly,ladybus ;)) the blue and gree r my fav.
Thank You for the lovely comment
Kindest Thoughts and Wishes,
Lee
We love these! Nest to ladybugs, dragonflies our favorite buggie. That jewelwing damsel is so elegant. Gorgeous – thanks for getting so close to Nature & showing us all Her glory!
Love LuRain & the lady
x
flying in the sunlight
patches of blues and greens
buzzing as the hover
these wonderful flying machines
ancient as time itself
forever am I lost
deep into their eyes
looking for the
dinosaurs
that they truly are.
awesome shots Lee :~)
seriously need to get a new camera
As always dearest June the decoration of your poetry warms my blog…
Love & Hugs,
Lee