Some things are considered to be so simple... when we are not willing to contemplate.
I understand that we take a lot for granted. Incredible and mind-blowing things happen so frequently that many get bored with them and dismiss them as unworthy of pondering. Many would rather get distracted with the violence and lust on television that consider deeper things. While they are certainly free to do so, I find it fortunate that I am not among those.
I have recently both photographed a Dragonfly and swam in the enormous Lake Michigan with some Dragonfly nymphs. The life cycle and stages of the Dragonfly are so incredible, yet some would prefer to just squish the icky bug.
Obviously, @papa-pepper has a huge appreciation for creation and all of the amazing plants and animals that were are blessed to have share this precious planet with us. Therefore, I have a certain starting point from which I view the creatures of earth, and it seems that many others here are able to understand my point of view, although some of them would never interact with these creatures in the way that I choose too. Even now, I would rather be out looking for Water Moccasins...
THE EYE OF THE DRAGONFLY
Anyway, while photographing this Dragonfly, I could not help but notice how its eyes would not come into focus for me. The compound eye of the Dragonfly is made up of tens of thousands of little ommatidia, which are units for vision that contain light sensitive cells and a lens. Each tiny little ommatidia sends its own information to the brain of the Dragonfly where it is processed with the data from thousands of other ommatidia and combined to form a picture of the world that the Dragonfly is seeing.
Dragonflies have incredible eyesight (isn't all eyesight incredible?) and they can sure see me coming a mile away. I've often spent time over the years with a Dragonfly in my hand just staring into its strange eyes. You should try it sometime! It'll make you wonder.
THE WINGS OF THE DRAGONFLY
It is also hard to photograph a Dragonfly without taking notice of the wonderful wings, full of tiny little veins. When it comes to insects that are skilled at aerial acrobatics, Dragonflies are near the top of the list. Have you ever just watched one hover or chase a mosquito?
Even more amazing to consider is how the wings emerge from inside the nymph and then spread and dry, soon being able to allow the Dragonfly to fly! Though the creature is different, the transformation of the Dragonfly nymph into an adult is very similar to this Cicada footage that I filmed, which @mericanhomestead sped up and put to music.
After being hidden beneath the exoskeleton of the nymph, the wings emerge and spread to dry in the sun. Soon, they are stiff and ready for flight. Just like the framing of a house provides strength and support, the veins in the wings of the Dragonfly give it strength. If you look closely at them, I think that you will be amazed. What detailed precision each one is crafted with!
Anyway, it seems that what has started out as a post where I was going to share a few photos of a fantastic creature has now turned into a post where I shared a few thoughts as well. This is part of why I like being up close and personal with the world around me, including wild creatures like insects; it'll make you think. There is just so much to consider and marvel at, when we take the time. Slow down folks, and enjoy it!
As always, I'm @papa-pepper and here's the proof:
proof-of-a-dragonfly-worth-contemplating
Until next time…
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