Dragonfly - Needs Expert ID

[c.j.]

I noticed in some of the other posts that there are some resident experts. I possess basic layman's knowledge, and would appreciate any further elaboration on identity.

Here's what I know: There are about 5,000 known species of Dragonflies, the common name for members of the insect suborder Anisoptera, order Odonata.

They lay their larvae in our pond. Once they reach maturity, they are virtually without predators, due to their flying speed and agility.


This photo is from my archives. It was taken last summer, old school Epson 2.1 megapixel camera. Over at mtbr.com, I've posted a lot of photos n the past, riding and 'Arizona Nature' specifically. Everything I've posted on this forum, since I signed on last week, has been from the new camera. This picture is the first from the old…



I wanted feedback from people who are a bit more involved with the actual subject matter - photos. Thanks, again, for the critiques and help.

[paulnj]

Got me on this one . Like you said though, 5000+ species

How about...

Flame Skimmer - Libellula saturata

http://www.azodes.com/dragons/default.asp

[almo]

Dragonfiles can be tough to nail down. They are my biggest insect challenge to ID, but I am gonna say you have a:

Flame Skimmer, (Libellula saturata)

[almo]

Hey no fair, Paul Had not posted when I started posting!

[c.j.]

Hey no fair, Paul Had not posted when I started posting!

Ha! Moderator trumps ya'…


Thanks for the help, (both of you). He, the dragonfly, definitely skims the water, so that alone is an apt description. Then the flame color, kind of nails it, for the common name,

[paulnj]

We are both Mods and both love nature. Almo is far better at insects than me, so I usually ask for his much appreciated help.

Did you see the link I sent you to AZ dragonflies?It mostlikely isn't a complete list, but it has alot!