Dragonflies.
Dragonflies!!!! They are just so hard to capture; flitting about in frenzied, energetic bursts as they hunt for creatures smaller than themselves to devour and play hide n seek with their playmates. But finally I managed to get a couple of printable images to share with you, with more than a sense of achievement.
EASTERN PYGMYFLY DRAGONFLY.
Dragonflies are insects which belong to the Odonata family. Adults are distinguished by their large, multifaceted eyes and two pairs of wings which are both strong and transparent.
Damselflies (Zygoptera) are smaller in size and generally lighter in build than dragonflies and an obvious difference between the two is that dragonflies hold their wings flat and away from their body whereas the damselflies fold their wings along or above the abdomen when resting.
BLACK HEADED SKIMMER:
Immature males are yellow brown in colour which happens to be the same colour as the female species. They are often found amongst swampy vegetation and areas where water is situated. The males gradually turn blue and when this colour wears a little thin it is a sure indication that the males has mated many times.
The scientific name for Black Headed skimmers is Crocothemis nigrifrons. They are common in coastal areas of Australia, especially between Newcastle and Cairns and also in the Northern Territory. Occasionally they are seen in south east Australia but also habitat New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. They are classified as medium sized dragonflies. Males enjoy skimming low over areas of water such as ponds, lakes and rivers and enjoy resting on flat rocks or twigs. They can chose to perch horizontally or vertically.
Dragonflies are robust fliers but damselflies fly with weaker movements and are quite fluttery in nature. Their existence has become somewhat threatened with the reduction of wetland areas. They are much admired around the world and reproduced as artifacts in pottery, paintings, and Art Nouveau jewellery.
Dragonflies have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes in Japan and China and are a food source for Indonesians. They represent courage, strength, and happiness in Japan but European folklore present them as rather sinister.
Here is a photo of the Red Dragon Fly after receiving a digital makeover.
THANK YOU FOR VIEWING. HAVE A GREAT DAY.