My Favourite Image Beautiful Demoiselle (Calopteryx virgo)

These slightly larger damselflies are the nature photographers dream. They are very approachable near to running water but are less so on still water, why I don't know.

The males exhibit a metallic blue / green body with dark blue or even black wings. Females are greener in appearance with a hint of bronze.

They readily perch on bank side vegetation and love to bask in the sunshine. Using a stealthy and steady approach some really close up photographs are possible. Several approaches may be required before they become used to your presence.

This image shows the stunning green colour of the thorax as well as the mouth parts. Capturing images this close up will have an major effect on the depth of field, which can be tolerated.

This female specimen perched quite readily in the spring sunshine and was unperturbed by my presence.