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A photographic journey into the amazing world of dragonflies and damselflies of Denmark…

by hobby photographer Jesper Johnsen

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Dragonflies are insects in the sub-order Anisoptera (meaning “unequal-winged”). Hind wings are usually shorter and broader than forewings. They are usually large, strongly flying insects that can often be found flying well away from water. When at rest, they hold their wings out from the body, often at right angles to it. The eyes are very large and usually touch, at least at a point.

Damselflies are insects in the sub-order Zygoptera (meaning “paired-wings”). All four wings are near enough equal in size and shape. They are usually small, weakly flying insects that stay close to the water margins or water surface. When at rest, most species hold their wings along the length of their abdomen. The Emerald Damselflies are an exception and usually hold their wings partly open when at rest. They are therefore known as Spreadwings in North America. The eyes are always separated, never touching.

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Photographing Sympetrum sanguineum

Autumn has arrived and soon this years dragonfly season will be over. When out dragonfly hunting the most frequent encounters are now hawkers like Aeshna cyanea, Aeshna grandis and Aeshna mixta and darters like Sympetrum vulgatum, Sympetrum…

More Photos of Ophiogomphus cecilia

Had another trip to Resenbro at Gudenåen to photograph Ophiogomphus cecilia. Like last time, I quickly spotted several Ophiogomphus cecilia flying around but this time they behaved differently. Instead of perching on the vegetation next…

Photographing Ophiogomphus cecilia

Late summer has been really good in Denmark this year with many warm and sunny days. Last week I took advantage of this and drove to a for me familiar location, but one I haven't visited for several years. It's right next to the river Gudenåen…