The Ravenous Pondhawk

In early October, I encountered this Erythemis simplicicollis, Eastern Pondhawk, with the prey that it had just captured. The Pondhawk was living up to its reputation as a "voracious predator" as it devoured  the female Rambur's Forktail.

Erythemsis simplicicollis with Ischnura ramburii

I was able to view this feast at quite a close range as the preoccupied dragon ignored my presence.

The very next day at the same wetlands, I came across another pondhawk. This time the Pondhawk had captured a female Needham's Skimmer that equaled it in size. This was fascinating for me to see, but unfortunately the duo disappeared into the reeds and I was unable to relocate them.

Erythemsis simplicicollis with a Libellula needhami

Finding Forktails

The Rambur's  Forktail, Ischnura ramburii,  is one of the most widespread damselflies found around Florida. They are present all year near wetlands.

male Rambur's Forktail

blue Male-like female Rambur's Forktail

The females have multiple color forms, including blue and green male-like forms, an orange form, and an olive green form.

Orange-form female Rambur's Forktail

Over the past two months I've seen numerous mating pairs near the local pond I visit. This mating male was observed to have some a small amount parasites.