~Paired Coenagrion puella~

A pair of Azure Damselflies in their post mating coupling, this pair were sheltering on a plant on the Grantham Canal towpath and they allowed me to get close enough for a few decent shots. The only problem was the blustery conditions, I had to wait for a lull in the wind to get these shots. I was also using diffused flash for these shots in aperture priority, it does seem to give a more vibrant colour at times. The female on the left doesn't look like she's too happy with the whole affair :o)

 

After mating the male remains linked to the female and this lasts during the ovipositing process. The male is basically protecting the female from any unwanted advances by other Damselflies. I would like to know if the male selects likely the sites for egg laying as he appears to lead the pair in flight or is there some form of mutual decision making or is it all up to the female?

 

I have just read that Damsels will stay linked like this for quite a while prior to mating, it is to do with the fit of the males claspers on the thorax of the female, it was described as a lock and key scenario, if the key doesn't fit well then the link up won't make it to mating :0)

 

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Done