Broad-winged Damselflies

Broad-winged Damselflies (Calopterygidae) include 8 species north of Mexico. These are large, beautiful damselflies with widely separated eyes not as large as those of dragonflies. They are easily distinguished from other damselflies by their larger size and the distinctive broad wings held folded directly above their abdomen. They are the only damselflies that have courtship displays. Males perform fluttering wing displays while courting, often hovering while facing the female. There are two species in eastern Nebraska. The Ebony Jewelwing is common in Fontenelle Forest and can be seen every year along Stream Trail. The American Rubyspot is found along moving rivers and streams. It was first seen in Fontenelle Forest along the Stream north and south of Gifford Road in mid-July, 2012.

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