Sunday, August 15, 2010

Black-shouldered Spinylegs

Another one of the large clubtails that we have here in Minnesota is the black-shouldered spinylegs. Unlike most birds names, the common names of many of the dragonflies are actually fitting descriptions of the dragon and the black shouldered spinylegs is the ultimate example. It's name comes from its large black shoulder stripes and the large spines that protrude from their hindlegs.
The black-shouldered spinylegs can be found through out most of the summer and into September, log after many of the other clubtails have disappeared. They are typically found along large streams and rivers or lakes with rocky shores. The water can not be too acidic or else the nymphs will not survive. I photographed this black-shouldered spinylegs on the shores of the St Croix River in Wild River State Park.

13 comments:

Unknown said...

Very nice macro shots.

Roan said...

Cool! His eyes are amazing. Great catch.

slumbull said...

Golden delight

Adrienne Zwart said...

I always learn something new when I visit your blog. Thanks!

Frostbite and Sunburn said...

He looks gold-plated !

michael said...

I got the opportunity to visit that state park once. Lovely area. Your photos are stunning as usual.

Kala said...

What beautiful golden tones this insect has. Thanks for sharing!

Elaine @ Commotion said...

I love dragonflies and you surely have captured these perfectly!! I like the shiny color of the "clubtail".

Maaike said...

great macro
love the color of the dragonfly

betty-NZ said...

Awesome little creature!

Janneke said...

Great macro shot!
Love it

KaHolly said...

What a beauty! He looks as though someone plugged him in, so bright and shiny is his metallic sheen. Great shot showing his club tail. ~karen

Chesney said...

Great details!!! What a cool bug!