Well, with the (finally) warmer and drier weather we’ve been experiencing (yes, I started this post awhile back) many more winged creatures have been making the scene at Presque Isle.  On the day I shot these,  Toni and I withstood the blazing heat for hours on end to bring you, our dear readers, some information about and photographs of some of these winged beauties.

Male Eastern Forktail Damselfly +Photoshop:)

One of the great things about doing this blog is that for many posts, like this one,  I do research to present the most accurate and, hopefully, interesting  facts.  So, much of the time, I am learning right along with you.  For instance, did you know that Presque Isle is home to some 89 species of odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) and lepidoptera (butterflies and moths)?  Me neither!  Worldwide there are some 5,000 individual species of dragonflies.  One of my favorite newly learned facts about dragonflies is that one of their primary food sources is mosquitoes.  I am NOT a fan of mosquitoes, as Toni can attest, so I hope those dragonflies gourge themselves to their hearts’ content.

Dragonflies spend most of their lives in the larval stage (up to three years!)   The flying stage, which lasts only a few weeks is primarily for mating purposes.  So, if you see a dragonfly or damselfly flying, it’s toward the end of its life, but, hey, what a way to go:)

Is this not the cutest guy ever? Looks like a little old man to me:)

Speaking of old, dragonflies have lived on the earth for approximately 300 million years.  They retain most of the characteristics of their ancestors but have gotten smaller.  I’m happy about that:)

Because of its large multifaceted eyes that contain thousands of tiny lenses the adult dragonfly can see nearly 360 degrees around itself. Though many people fear them, dragonflies cause no harm to humans whatsoever. They are often curious toward humans and will fly around you for that reason, but they do not sting or bite.  There have been many legends about dragonflies in the past (and present).  For example, people used to believe that sleeping outside put you at risk of having your eyes sewn shut by the dragonfly or “darning needle.  I remember hearing that one as a kid:)  So, no need to fear the dragonfly.  He is our friend, and enemy to the blood-sucking mosquito!!

The Original Fire-Breathing Dragon!