Amber-winged Spreadwing
(Lestes eurinus)
Click to enlargeCommunal egg-laying
The Amber-winged Spreadwing is not widespread, but when found they are often found in great numbers. This damselfly is the largest Lestes sp. found in Wisconsin. The Amber-winged Spreadwing lays eggs while the male is still attached. They often do so communally as in the photo below. Likewise, of all the Spreadwings that I have observed, this species is the most likely to feed upon other damselflies. I have observed them eating Azure Bluets and teneral Spreadwings, probably Sweetflag Spreadwings. The second photo show this behavior.