Juvenile Female

Twelve-spotted Skimmer (Libellula pulchella).

 

I watched this dragonfly twirling and twisting, spiraling up into the air her wings shimmering and sparkling as they reflected the warm sunshine. The next thing I knew, not one, but two birds hit her from both sides. She went down fast, laying in the water, those magical wings floating lifeless by her side. I was sure she was gone. But I noticed her legs moving and reaching out for something to cling onto. I broke off a branch and reached out to her. She grasped onto the stick as I brought her to shore. Her wings were wet, but they were in good condition. I let her hang out on my hand while her wings dried. A couple minutes later, off she flew, back into her harsh, insect world. But for the couple of minutes she was in mine I felt a special peace on earth. XO