LUST, LOTUS BUD & A DAMSEL

You may have observed the peculiar mating rituals of dragonflies above a pond or river. Occasionally, the male can be observed carrying the female while executing various aerial maneuvers. Despite appearing harmless and romantic, their interaction is actually considered sexual harassment. I would like to share with you some images depicting their unique behavior. These were taken in 2010.

DAMSELFLIES MATING IN WHEEL POSITION

Love on a Lotus Bud :: Odonate Reproduction, Damselflies in the “wheel” position. Damselflies come together in the “wheel” position to mate and often fly in tandem like this. Subsequently, the male typically stays connected to the female while she lays eggs. During this process, he maintains his hold on the front part of the female’s thorax by using claspers situated at the end of his abdomen. Normally, a male damselfly would utilize his organ to remove his competitors’ sperm before releasing his own.

DAMSELFLIES IN WHEEL POSITION

The delicate dance of balance :: Damselflies engaging in Odonate Oviposition. As the female prepares to lay her eggs, the male ensures no other potential mates interfere by staying attached to her. Dragonflies exhibit territorial behavior, with males actively warding off intruders. When it’s time to mate, a female will enter the male’s domain. While dragonflies and damselflies share similarities, the latter are known for their fragility. Dragonflies typically display open wings, whereas damselflies keep theirs closed together.