PHOTOGRAPHY | WILDLIFE
The Damselfly: A Totem for Purity and Protection
Six Word Photo Story Challenge: Freestyle
Live like there is no tomorrow.
I’d been trying to photograph the blue damselflies all afternoon. So many are out at this time of year darting across the surface of the water, making love in the sunshine, and generally enjoying themselves. I managed to get a few clicks but they weren’t great.
It was time for afternoon tea (well coffee and cake actually!) so we moored up at the riverside cafe and hopped out the boat.
The sun was scorching and I would’ve liked a beer but you can’t be drunk in charge on a riverboat. Trust me that doesn’t end well.
A guy was looking out across the boats and I guess he’d heard me bemoaning the fact that I hadn’t got a decent shot yet because he suddenly piped up with.
“There’s a blue insect sitting on your boat. “
I leapt up, nearly tripped on the steps and sure enough, this little guy was sunning himself on the elastic of the boat cover.
He was so still I was able to get some really good close-ups.
It’s amazing how such a small creature can be so beautiful.
Did you know, damselflies can be found all over the world?
There are over 4,000 different species of damselfly and they are an important part of the food chain — they eat mosquitoes and other small insects.
Damselflies typically live for a week or two. How sad.
“I enjoy life to the fullest!
I flit about from flower to water,
taking in all the beauty of life.
I am a symbol of purity and protection,
and my presence brings joy to those in strife.”
— The Damselfly, by Sarah-Jane
A damselfly tends to symbolize purity, protection, and equality bringing positivity to your life.
When you see a damselfly, take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you and to reflect on what is truly important in your life.