Flag-tailed Spinyleg

The posted photo was chosen as it shows both the spines on the hind femora and the flag type, vertically flattened club. Spinylegs are a small genus of three (3) North American species, recognized by a row of from 4 to 8 or more extremely long spines on their long hind femora. This photo was taken 9-05-09 on a large, spring fed private pond 2 miles east of Roswell, N.M. It is perched low and close to water, in an area also inhabited by Eastern Amberwings, Brimstone Clubtails and both Blue Eyed and Common Green Darners. It was approachable to under 10', returning to its perch after each flight.