Dragonflies perch, swoop, and vie for territory around the garden pond, which we designed to welcome them. It’s deep enough for them to lay eggs and successfully produce offspring. They eat mosquito larvae and any adults who manage to hatch.
Blue Dashers (Pachydiplax longipennis)
The common name of my favorite dragonfly refers to the bright teal bodies of the males. The scientific name refers to the long wings of the females, who have a relatively shorter thorax than other dragonflies so their wings look longer in proportion. The females are blue but not as vivid.
They form a heart shape when they mate.
When it’s hot, they point their abdomens to the sky to create a tiny bit of shade and stay cool.
Common Whitetail (Plathemis lydia)
Somewhat larger than the Blue Dasher, these Dragonflies are named for the white markings on the tails of the males. The first one I spotted here was female. Do better, scientists!
Slaty Skimmer (Libellula incesta)
The Slaty Skimmer is larger than the Blue Dasher and more aggressive. I’ve only seen this dragonfly a few times here.
