Radio Free Dragonfly by KatesFriend
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Description
I am no expert, but a quick Google search leads me to conclude that this little fellow is a Twelve Spotted Skimmer (Libellula pulchella as the scholars say). A rather common breed of dragonfly found in my locale of Southern Ontario and much of North America - 'sic aiunt'. Looks to be a male and a very amorous one at that. He doggedly clutches the no doubt sensuous top of my automobile's antenna. Nature will find a way they say. It was a bright but very windy day, the afternoon I took this photograph. Hence some blurring of the hairs and those lovely gossamer wings. Indeed, my subject blew off his beloved f-swain several times. Initially, I lamented the lost opportunity of a photograph as I had to retrieve my camera from the car. Only to be rewarded with the dragonfly's eventual return after surveying the neighbourhood for a more animated lover. Or perhaps an unlucky mosquito. In the end, I actually took about fifteen shots of this graceful insect before he decided it was time to move on. I like dragonflies. As insects go, they have all the virtues. Beauty, colour, wonderous variety and flight so graceful as to put a Snowbird pilot to shame. Plus, a ravenous appetite for mosquitoes. I don't like mosquitoes. I remember spring afternoons fishing, the mosquitoes would attack in clouds. Very unpleasant as such days were often cold, wet and this day, no fish to be had. The constant whining in my ears was rather lamentful and I was about to pack it in. Then, out of nowhere, a squadron (they flew in formation) of nine or ten dragonflies with blue and green tails dove into the swarm of blood sucking marauders and began munching on them as fast as their mandibles could move. The mosquitoes seemed to know they were in danger and started to move away but it was too late. I saw one dragonfly, flying with a mosquito in its jaws and another caught in its front legs. Startling to say the least, the dragonflies were incredibly systematic in their pursuit of their pray. If I ever have my own radio station, I think I will dub it 'Radio Free Dragonfly' in honour of this moment. Indeed, if I have any regrets in life, I believe I may have missed a calling as a news announcer. Should I ever give up my life as a public servant, I think I would like to try my hand at broadcasting. Radio of coarse, I'm far too hideous for television - my likeness frightens children and small dogs. It is a criminal offense to publish my image within most nations of the Commonwealth. Ah, perhaps a second career, after I retire in 2177 (second go-round). Cheers everybody.
Comments (15)
magnus073
This really is a remarkable capture Clayton, and one to be proud of. I also like dragonflies and got a kick out of your thoughts here.
Faemike55
Wonderful capture! This is a really great shot and your narrative is both fascinating and humorous. Thank you for sharing this image and your thoughts with us.
eekdog
i agree, remarkable shot!!
Mondwin
Fascinating and splendid capture my friend!!!Bravissimo!V:DDD.Hugsxx Whylma
mejed
Great photograph.
drifterlee
Beautiful shot. I have a new camera and I have hardly used it. Have to start.
goldie
as a country girl by nature, i love most wild creatures, even insects, for their very own idiosyncratic beautiful characteristics...i may not like them near me, such as the deer fly, but i do respect and admire all of them. as far as insects go, i especially like the dragon fly--it's their gossamer wings and the iridescent colors they often carry. a wonderful capture of this little fella, Clayton...i especially enjoyed your commentary :)
photosynthesis
Fantastic capture - dragonflies are very cool creatures...
Minda
wow,,Great shot..
flavia49
marvelous
artofsouls
Amazing work with the camera on this one
sandra46
AMAZING WORK
BLUESTONE
Nicely done; such a great sliver of a depth-of-field. Looks like he just had those wings painted this morning.
ACue
Love the photo and the deliciously whimsical comment. I'm not sure I'd listen to Radio Free Dragonfly every day, but I would listen to the odd podcast. BTW, you've inspired me to post a photo I took of a dragonfly at the cottage with my smart phone. Stay tuned!
Cyve
Marvelous closeup!