Buzz
For years, photographer and astronomer Pieter van Dokkum had been fascinated by dragonflies. His passion culminated when he discovered a serene pond in New England, teeming with hundreds of these insects. Inspired, van Dokkum embarked on creating a book. He braved the pond waters, spent countless nights capturing the perfect moments, and even sacrificed a few pairs of shoes. The outcome is the exquisite Dragonflies: Magnificent Creatures of Water, Air, and Land, a tribute to the stunning beauty of these creatures.
The book begins with the early stages of dragonflies, focusing on the nymphs. These wingless juveniles undergo a metamorphosis akin to caterpillars, a process that lasts an entire night. Van Dokkum documents the entire lifecycle of dragonflies, culminating in the autumn season. Approximately one-third of the photographs were taken at the New England pond, with the remainder captured in various locations across the United States and the Netherlands.
Van Dokkum likens dragonflies to fairies, a comparison that feels apt. These fragile beings display extraordinary colors and an almost magical beauty. Below are some highlights from Dragonflies.
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Stained glass wing. The intricate, rigid surface of the wings is supported by a network of veins. The delicate hues of this young Black Meadowhawk result from sunlight reflecting off its still semi-transparent wings."
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Thermoregulation. Dragonflies control their body temperature by adjusting their posture to either increase or reduce sun exposure. During the hottest parts of the day, species like the Halloween Pennant may tilt their abdomens upward to minimize heat absorption, a behavior known as 'obelisking.'"
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Calico Pennant, female."
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Hide and Seek. Damselflies are light sleepers—if insects can be said to sleep at all. Even when cold and covered in dew, they often retreat from approaching threats, concealing themselves behind the plants they cling to. Sometimes, only a curious eyeball remains visible to predators—and cameras!"
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Common Green Darner. This large dragonfly is arguably the most iconic species in America. They are frequently seen flying over ponds and hunting across meadows. Certain populations of Common Green Darners migrate, traveling from the southern United States to Canada in spring, with their offspring making the return journey south in autumn."
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Male Flame Skimmer"
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Male Flame Skimmer."
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Female Seaside Dragonlet. While most dragonflies rely on freshwater for reproduction, the Seaside Dragonlet stands out as the only American species that breeds in saltwater. It stays close to coastal areas, often inhabiting salt marshes and tidal flats."
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Variable Darner, consuming a butterfly."
© Pieter Van Dokkum
"Damselfly nursery. Certain plants are particularly favored by damselflies for laying their eggs."
To explore more images, buy the book here.
