Harlequin Darner Dragonfly (male) – 6/9/20
Observer: Paul Lauenstein
Observation Date: 6/9/20
Observation Time: 1:30 p.m.
Observation Location: field near Gavins Pond dam
Common Name: Harlequin Darner dragonfly (male)
Scientific Name: Gomphaeschna furcillata
Comments: The Harlequin Darner is a member of the Aeshnidae family of dragonflies. This species occurs across much of the eastern United States and parts of southeast Canada. Its range extends to eastern Texas.
Harlequin darners resemble taper-tailed darners. The pale 7-shaped mark on the side of abdominal segment 2 is diagnostic of female Harlequin Darner. Female Taper-tailed darners have a dark inverted J-shaped mark instead. See: https://www.marylandbiodiversity.com/viewSpecies.php?species=680.
I got help identifying this specimen from Bugguide.net. If you register (it’s free), they will help you identify your photos of insects and spiders.
More Information: Walter Sanford’s photoblog