Common Whitetail

Common Whitetail, Plathemis lydia

Odonates are a common part of every bird walk during the months when they are present, and add interest and enjoyment to each excursion. It's fascinating to observe dragonflies and damselflies go about their daily lives and to note which species fall prey to insectivorous birds such as tyrant flycatchers. These pictures show an adult male (with the white abdomen) and an immature male (with the brown abdomen). They were photographed at Schneider's Bush, Waterloo, ON on 19 June 2011.