Back in August, I deviated from my early morning visits to the wetlands to take a walk just before sunset. As I scanned through the thick shrubs I found my first Prince Baskettail, Epitheca princeps. This species is uncommon locally in my coastal county.
This large Emerald species is found in the eastern half of the US. The season in Florida is noted to be March through December.
This species typically spends most of its time flying above ponds and marshes, patrolling for insects.
Adult Baskettails rest while hanging from twigs.
As the sun was setting, this Prince's day was done.