SE7999 : Golden-ringed Dragonfly by the Roadside
This is a Golden-ringed Dragonfly. This individual didn't fly away as the wings have been damaged - note the warped ends. As dragonflies emerge they have to pump fluid into their wings so that they expand (they are packaged up very small as larvae) and they are very delicate during this period and many insects are damaged. Seems a shame as this species can spend up to 7 years in the larval stage. Once the wings have dried out they are quite tough but it is still best not to handle insects unless they need help.