100 more species #93: Meadowhawk

[urbpan]

Meadowhawk Sympetrum sp.

Meadowhawks are small dragonflies that often hunt far from water. In many species the males are red. Determining species often can only be accomplished by closely examining the terminal appendages of the male--not yet a hobby of mine. This one was perched on a plantain flower/fruit stalk long enough for Alexis to suggest I go get my insect net and catch it. This is the way to hold a dragonfly (in zookeeper talk: manually restrain) so that you don't hurt it and it doesn't get away.


I've noticed that after some manual restraint many insects are tired, and rest a while in place before flying away.