I'ts time for another online advent calendar! Since I didn't go to the Amazon this year, and the 2015 edition featured Belgian butterflies, I decided to focus on Belgian odonata this year. Odonata, or odes, as they are sometimes referred to, is the family comprising damselflies and dragonflies. Many birders turn to butterflies during the summer months, which tend to be quieter for birds, yet are daunted by the thought of trying to identify the odonata due to the many similar-looking species. With a bit of patience, however, knowing where to look for the distinguishing features, and a decent photo, one can identify most of the species which are likely to be encountered in Western Europe.
First of all, which is which? Damselflies tend to hold their wings closed when at rest (although there are exceptions) and are generally smaller and dainter than the more robust dragonflies, which almost always rest with their wings outstretched.
Calopteryx splendens, or Banded Demoiselle, is common throughout Belgium, including Brussels, where it can be most easily seen in Woluwe Park. Unlike most other damselflies, this family prefers running water and so is mainly found along streams. It gets its name from the distinctive, dark band on the wings which is only present in males, the females having plain, greenish-tinted wings.
