A Study of the Emperor Dragonfly Exuvia

With the dragonfly season well and truly in full swing and lots of photos being taken at the moment, many still to even look at, I spent some time last night relaxing at home taking some photos of an Emperor Dragonfly exuvia I found on a recent session. Just like the dragonflies themselves, I have become quite obsessed with finding these on my outings and there is probably no better sight than finding a fresh Emperor Dragonfly exuvia clinging to the reeds. Knowing that the nymph has probably lived in the water for two years and has during one dark evening, climbed up the reed to transform into a dragonfly is one of nature's secrets that many have not seen. The only sign that this has taken place is the empty exuvia. After a few days of clinging to the reeds, eventually the wind normally get the better of them and they weaken and fall off into the water. I have found these really fascinating to study, looking at their intricate details and slowly learning the different features for each species I encounter. I would very much like to find a full Norfolk Hawker exuvia, I found half of one I think the other day but I shall continue on this task. Thankfully this exuvia when found clinging to the reeds was removed carefully and happily stands well horizontally making for some interesting angles to get some shots of. I took a few from different angles and as can be seen, they have turned out quite well and hopefully captures some of the detail we would never see with the eye when they are clinging to the reeds and blowing in the wind. I can see this project gathering pace as the season continues and hopefully I can at least find and photograph a few more species before the season finishes. 

Emperor Dragonfly Exuvia