Created 21-Oct-10
Modified 6-May-24
Most of these pictures were taken in our yard. With a little practice I have found that I can approach quite closely with the macro lens (even down to six inches or so) if the dragonfly is approaches directly and with no extraneous movement. Even when they take flight they will usually return to the same perch: hence just maintain my position and wait.
The dragonflies are superb carnivores, eating a range of other insects, which they sometimes catch in flight. It takes only seconds for body, wings, etc, to go down the throat: although the dragonfly will often then sit around for several minutes to digest his/her meal.
In contrast to the dragonflies, the damselflies are weaker fliers - generally going five or ten feet at a time before perching. Whereas dragonflies perch with their wings horizontal or slightly downward angled, the damselflies generally hold their wings upright.
© Michael Ross Nature Photography
