The unique damselfly

This little insect looks very similar to a dragonfly, but it isn't. It is a damselfly. There are many different kinds and colors of damselflies in the world. Most of them are much smaller than dragonflies.

The damselfly that I have photographed resting on a small twig is about 1 1/2 inch long.

Damselfly nymphs live in water and feed on small aquatic organisms, including mosquito larvae. In its adult stage a damselfly will catch and eat small flying insects, including mosquitoes. If you do not like mosquitoes, the tiny damselfly must surely be considered a friend.

One sure way to tell a damselfly from a dragonfly is to observe them sitting. The damselfly's wings will lie along the length of its body. The dragonfly's wings will be extended perpendicular to its body, extending outwardly into the air.

Through the Woods is a weekly nature photo column by Aaron Horrell. Find this column at semissourian.com to order a reprint of the photo. Find more work by Aaron at The Painted Wren Gallery.