janson jones
Calopteryx maculata, the Ebony jewelwing;
Volusia county, Florida (11 April 2023).
If you live anywhere in the eastern half of the United States, I’m sure you’ve seen this species. The Ebony jewelwing is a delicate, energetic Odonatan. In Florida, I often see them zipping about amongst heavily-shaded foliage. They don’t tend to sit still for very long, though — at least not for me. They are very active!