Spatterdock Darner - male

Description:

Also known as the Spring Blue Darner is a large dragonfly with intense blue and brown coloration. The bright blue eyes of the Spatterdock darner distinguish it from all similar darners in the eastern U.S., but the closely related blue-eyed darner (Aeshna multicolor), found in the western states, is nearly identical. This species has special concern to threatened status in many of its native states and is considered very uncommon.

Habitat:

Vermont to Kentucky and west to Wisconsin. Prefers ponds and lakes that are fishless and contain abundant growth of spatterdock, also known as yellow pond lily.

Notes:

I have observed both males & females cruising for food over the garden in the past 2 weeks. They seldom land, particularly the males.