Since He is the largest of Dragonflies, most people can readily identify Emperor Dragonfly. One of the fastest flying Insects, Emperor Dragonfly is also extremely sharp-sighted. Highly territorial, He patrols his weedy ponds, darting and swooping about looking for intruders. Because He is so big, Emperor Dragonfly can easily cover a large pond or a small lake. With his bright blue body, He makes an impressive sight as the ruler of the pond.
Thought of as a living fossil, Emperor Dragonfly has remained unchanged for 230 million years. However, He has no trouble hunting down other Insects. Darting around, He catches most of his prey in midair. While swooping down, Emperor Dragonfly forms a basket with his legs to catch an unfortunate Insect. Then, he transfers the captured Insect to his jaws to eat.
Even as a Nymph, Emperor Dragonfly successfully hunts Insects. He propels himself through water by expelling water rapidly from his intestines. His extendable jaws are armed with deadly hooks, enabling Emperor Dragonfly Nymph to catch and kill Water Lice.
Since few Birds can out fly Him, Emperor Dragonfly can be said to be the undisputed ruler of the pond. Emperor Dragonfly teaches lessons about the uses of might. To the other Insects of the pond, He is a terror. However, many people admire Emperor Dragonfly for his boldness. You need to understand how to use power and when not to.
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Drawing of Dragonfly courtesy of The Four Seasons
Va. Carper