Golden-winged Skimmer - male 1 - D40x - 6-23-09 by Leeco

Photography • Insects • posted on Aug 13, 2009

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Description

I have had a difficult time identifying this species. In truth, it is possible it is a Needham's Skimmer, but it is not likely. I was very excited a year or two ago when I got my first shot of this species. Their colors are very striking. They almost seem to glow. I have since managed to get several decent shots. This one is not quite fully mature. They become much more orange-red when they reach full maturity. In response to a question asked about yesterday's posting, let me emphasize that I have never had a Dragonfly land on my hand but a few have landed on my head or arm. Every shot I have with one on my hand is the result of slowly getting as close as possible and extending my hand to them as they are perched. I then attempt to get them to step onto my finger from whatever they are perched on. Getting one to do this is a very iffy proposition. The vast majority of them fly away before I get close enough to even reach. Of the ones who stand their ground - the vast majority of those fly away at the first touch. Of the few who don't - I then have to get a shot before they decide enough is enough, lol. The only trick is to repeat the attempt as often as possible. Thanks to those who take the time to comment. Lee

Comments (9)

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Katraz

1:11AM | Thu, 13 August 2009

Great shot, it looks as if its straight off the set of Gold Finger.

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praep

1:12AM | Thu, 13 August 2009

Thanks for answering my question. You're a good dragon(fly)hunter I think. Great colors on this one. Never saw a golden dragonfly in my life.

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Str4wB34ry

2:04AM | Thu, 13 August 2009

Beautiful! Well captured. I have struggled to capture a dragonfly in my garden because they rarely sit still long enough to get close. Recently, I did manage a quick shot and might post it one day.

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