Raplids Clubtail

This dragonfly is a rapids clubtail, Gomphus quadricolor. It is a member of the Gomphidae, or clubtail family, genus Gomphus. Here in Minnesota they are one of the earlier dragons. They begin to emerge by the end of May and are gone by mid July.

Rapids clubtails are usually found around large rocky streams and rivers, typically where there is a swift current. Females lay their eggs in these swift currents. The eggs then get washed down the river or stream and end up in quiet pools which is perfect habitat for the nymphs. The nymphs will live in these pools until it is time for them to emerge into their adult form. Then they will crawl out of the water and into dense aquatic vegetation to emerge. I photographed this dragon along the St Croix River in Wild River State Park.