Here there be Dragons

Here there be Dragons by ricmcarthur
Here there be Dragons, a photo by ricmcarthur on Flickr.
Not sure why dragonflies are called dragons, however, this is a ruby meadowhawk, thanks Blake.
Evidently the tail looks like a darning needle.
We get a number of dragon and damselflies in and around our yard each year.

Scientific stuff
Sympetrum  rubicundulum
  • This dragonfly is typically 1.3 inches in length.
  • It is generally found near various forms of wetlands, but will sometimes be seen in meadows and open areas far from water. They are typically observed from late summer to early fall.
  • Geographically, the Ruby Meadowhawk's range is from the Great Plains to Maine.
  • The head is yellowish-brown, the thorax deep red to brown, and the abdomen is red to brown with dark lateral srtipes.
  • They are also characterized by dark legs and wing veins.

Comments

Blake A. Mann said…
Actually a Ruby Meadowhawk.
11:23 pm
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