Once again the nets have been put away — perhaps a bit earlier than we have become accustomed to in recent years

Ode News
An Occasional Newsletter about Dragonflies and Damselflies in Southern New England

Volume IX, Number 2 - ISSN 1084-9750 - November 2002

Once again the nets have been put away — perhaps a bit earlier than we have become accustomed to in recent years! — and it’s time to review the year-end results. The number of observers looking for odonates continues to grow, resulting in a record number of sightings in the 2002 field season. Although it seemed like a rather mediocre season overall, there were so many people out looking this year, that the number of noteworthy sightings reached record levels. Indeed, virtually this entire issue is taken up with sightings from across southern New England, to the point that we have found it necessary to postpone publication of a number of other items until the next issue. It’s an unusual pleasure to have such an abundance of contributions and we hope the trend continues!

In this issue, Ginger Brown provides a summary of sightings from Rhode Island while Mike Thomas does the same for Connecticut. We also have a contribution from Jennifer Loose updating the list of Massachusetts state-listed species and a note from Dave Small reporting on another very successful Dragonfly Institute in northern Worcester County.

CONTENTS:

The 2002 Season
Massachusetts Highlights – 2002
2002 Dragonfly Institute
RHODE ISLAND ATLAS: 2002 Summary
CONNECTICUT 2002 HIGHLIGHTS
ADDITIONS TO THE MASSACHUSETTS ENDANGERED SPECIES LIST
CONNECTICUT WORKSHOP

The 2002 Season

The weather this season provided some dramatic ups and downs. April was warm and dry, averaging about 2º(F) above average. Not surprisingly, this brought about early records for several species. The first, not identified to species but presumably a Common Green Darner (Anax junius), was seen flying past the Plum Island hawkwatch site in northeastern Massachusetts on 3 April (T. Carrolan). At least nine other species were reported during April in southern New England, many on record or near record early dates (see table on page 2).

May turned cool and damp, slowing emergences and returning the season to a more typical schedule. The chilly, wet weather continued through much of June. However, this pattern was broken rather abruptly in July, which was warm and dry. August was even warmer and remained dry, a pattern that continued into early October and resulted in a number of species being found into late September. During the second week of October, the weather turned cold very suddenly and continued that way through the end of the month, pretty much bringing the season to an end. By early November, only a few Yellow-legged Meadowhawks (Sympetrum vicinum) — a species with an exceptional tolerance for cold — were still out and about.

Drought prevailed throughout the region as the season began. Rains in May and June alleviated the situation somewhat, more so inland than along the coast, but the return of dry conditions through the remainder of the summer caused water levels to drop once again. What impact this drought had on local odonates is far from clear, especially given how little we yet know about annual fluctuations, or their causes, in odonate populations. However, it did seem that many species were in low numbers this season and it is easy, though not necessarily correct, to attribute this to the very dry conditions. Though not obviously related, it is perhaps worth noting that butterfly numbers were generally thought to be very low this year as well, and biting insects likewise seemed remarkably scarce throughout much of the summer — the silver lining to this cloud, at least for odonatists, if not odonates!

One interesting and strange condition that prevailed for a few days in early July was a blanket of smoke that blew down from some massive forest fires in northern Quebec. The smoke obscured the sun, especially in western Massachusetts, and suppressed odonate activity to levels more typical of a cloudy day.

April 2002 Odes in southern New England

Ringed Boghaunter (Williamsonia lintneri) - 4/15 (RI)

Hudsonian Whiteface (Leucorrhinia hudsonica) - 4/17 (RI, MA)

Springtime Darner (Basiaeschna janata) - 4/20 (RI), 4/21 (CT)

Fragile Forktail (Ischnura posita) - 4/21 (CT)

Eastern Forktail (I. verticalis) - 4/21 (CT)

Harlequin Darner (Gomphaeschna furcillata) - 4/27 (CT)

Common Baskettail (Epitheca cynosura) - 4/27 (CT)

Boreal Bluet (Enallagma boreale) - 4/27 (RI)

Beaverpond Clubtail (Epitheca canis) - 4/27 (MA)

Massachusetts Highlights – 2002

Blair Nikula

Despite the rather lackluster number of odonates evident this summer, at least 26 new county records with an additional five “upgrades” from historical status were recorded. Though far short of last year’s amazing 55 new county records and 15 historical “upgrades,” this is still a very noteworthy total. The vast majority of these were from just four of the state’s 14 counties, Berkshire, Hampshire, Hampden, and Nantucket, and most involved common and widespread species that were expected to occur in these areas. These new county records are listed in the accompanying box (page 3), and the more significant are detailed in the species accounts below. With the increasing number of observers and the ever-expanding coverage, the number of obvious holes in the county lists is rapidly shrinking — the law of diminishing returns will soon make finding new county records a real challenge! Indeed, this effect is already apparent at the state level. During the period from 1995 – 1999, when local interest in odonates surged, six species were added to the state list. However, none have been added since.

New Massachusetts County Records — 2002

Sparkling Jewelwing (Calopteryx dimidiata) – Hampshire (DM)

Spotted Spreadwing (Lestes congener) – Hampshire (GC), Hampden (GC)

Sweetflag Spreadwing (Lestes forcipatus) – Hampden (GC), Franklin (BN et al.)

Dusky Dancer (Argia translata) – Berkshire (GC)

Aurora Damsel (Chromagrion conditum) – Hampden (DM)

Slender Bluet (Enallagma traviatum) – Berkshire (BN et al.)

Vesper Bluet (Enallagma vesperum) – Berkshire (BN et al.)

Sphagnum Sprite (Nehalennia gracilis) – Hampden (LH)

Ocellated Darner (Boyeria grafiana) – Berkshire (JL)

Swamp Darner (Epiaeschna heros) – Hampshire [Historic] (DM)

Nasiaeschna pentacantha – Plymouth (FS)

Black-shouldered Spinyleg – Berkshire (GC)

Spine-crowned Clubtail (Gomphus abbreviatus) – Middlesex (MV et al.)

Beaverpond Clubtail (Gomphus borealis) – Hampshire (DM)

Rapids Clubtail (Gomphus quadricolor) – Franklin (MV et al.)

Rusty Snaketail (Ophiogomphus rupinsulensis) – Middlesex (MV et al.)

Least Clubtail (Stylogomphus albistylus) – Plymouth [Historic] (FS)

Racket-tailed Emerald (Dorocordulia libera) – Plymouth [Historic] (FS)

Ebony Boghaunter (Williamsonia fletcheri) – Franklin (DF et al.)

Banded Pennant (Celithemis fasciata) – Hampshire (GC)

Seaside Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax berenice) – Norfolk [Historic] (FS)

Needham’s Skimmer (Libellula needhami) – Nantucket (FS), Norfolk (FS)

Painted Skimmer (Libellula semifasciata) – Franklin (DS et al.)

Spot-winged Glider (Pantala hymenaea) – Nantucket (FS)

Eastern Amberwing (Perithemis tenera) – Nantucket (FS)

Saffron-bordered Meadowhawk (Sympetrum costiferum) – Nantucket [Historic] (FS) Black Saddlebags (Tramea lacerata) – Nantucket (FS), Plymouth (FS)

Observers: Maria Aliberti, Earle Baldwin, Stan Bolton, Bob Bowker, Brian Cassie, Brad Compton, Glen Corbiere, David Fitch, Fred Goodwin, Lynn Harper, Ken Harte, Rick Heil, Dick Hildreth, Gail Howe, Ed Lam, Jennifer Loose, Jim MacDougall, Dave McLain, Fred Morrison, Mike Nelson, Blair Nikula, Robert Packard, Fred SaintOurs, Pat Sorrentino, Dave Small, Mike Thomas, Jeremiah Trimble, Michael Veit, Richard Walton. Letters in brackets following the species name indicate Massachusetts state-listing designations: [E] = Endangered; [T] = Threatened; [SC] = Special Concern.

American Rubyspot (Hetaerina americana): This late season damsel was reported in several places this year, the first a male in Athol on 25 July (DS). The species was common along stretches of the Millers River in Athol, Orange, and Royalston later in the season, with the last reported on 2 October (EB et al.). Dozens were on the Westfield River in West Springfield/Agawam on 25 August (LH).

Lyre-tipped Spreadwing (Lestes unguiculatus): The only report this year involved a single male at Run Pond in Dennis on 2 August (BN). This scarce damsel continues to tantalize with its sporadic and unpredictable appearances.

Blue-fronted Dancer (Argia apicalis): This striking dancer was numerous along the Quinebaug River at the Dudley/Southbridge line on 12 July (LH), a previously unknown site for this local species.

Dusky Dancer (Argia translata): A male photographed in Lee on 7 August (GC) was a first for Berkshire County, and others were found in Holyoke at the Ashley Reservoir and Wright Reservoir in late July and August (LH, GC). This southern damsel is being found at an increasing number of sites, perhaps a beneficiary of the warming climate, or maybe just because observers are spending more time in the rather depauperate habitats it seems to favor.

Taiga Bluet (Coenagrion resolutum): Two males of this scarce northern damsel were caught in Warwick on 2 June (BN et al.), one of only a handful of recent reports of this northern species in Massachusetts.

Attenuated Bluet (Enallagma daeckii)[SC]: Several males discovered in Cohasset on 14 July were at a new location for this rare southern damsel, known from only a few sites in Bristol and Plymouth counties. The species also was present at a traditional site in Canton on 18 July (FS).

New England Bluet (Enallagma laterale)[SC]: Once thought to be a coastal plain species, this Northeastern endemic is proving to be common well inland and was found in numbers at several sites in northern Worcester County (DS et al.) and at several sites in Franklin County (LH, BN et al.), including locations in Heath and Rowe, the northwesternmost yet known for the species (it was also found for the first time in Vermont this year). Whether this species is expanding inland or was just overlooked previously is difficult to determine.

Citrine Forktail (Ischnura hastata): This miniscule, inconspicuous damselfly was reported from Plympton on 11 June (FS) and from Run Pond in Dennis on 2 August (BN) and 19 August (EL). Despite having a long flight season, extending from late May into early September, this tiny yellow damsel has been found very infrequently in recent years, with most records coming from the southeast coastal plain.

Lake Darner (Aeshna eremita): Although searches in northern Berkshire County failed to turn up any adults (perhaps due at least in part to unfavorable weather), an exuvia found in Tyler Swamp in the Savoy State Forest, Savoy on 24 July keyed out to this species (MV) and apparently is the first evidence of breeding in the state for this northern darner.

Spatterdock Darner (Aeshna mutata)[E]: This blue-eyed beauty was found at two sites in Pepperell in mid June (MV) and at a new site in Warwick on 5 July (MV).

Comet Darner (Anax longipes)[SC]: The only reports of this dramatic darner came from Dennis, where two males were seen on 2 August (BN); at least one was at the same site on 19 August (EL).

Ocellated Darner (Boyeria grafiana)[SC]: One in Dalton on 14 August (JL et al.) provided a first Berkshire County record, while Lynn Harper’s late-season efforts to find this species were very successful, documenting new sites in Buckland and Colrain (2 sites) on 14 September, North Adams on 15 September, Hawley on 21 September, and in Cummington on 5 October. The species was common along the Green River between Colrain and Leyden on 8 September (LH). This northern darner seems to thrive in streams that are too cold and rocky for most other odonates.

Swamp Darner (Epiaeschna heros): One over a field in Hadley on 13 June (DM) was a first for Hampshire County, but otherwise this species was virtually absent this year.

Taper-tailed Darner (Gomphaeschna antilope): This species was confirmed again this year in the northeast corner of the state. At least three small, drab darners, thought to be this species, were seen among a substantial movement of migrant dragonflies on Plum Island on 27 June and nine more were seen during the massive dragonfly movement there on 2 July (RH; see page 6), though none could be captured for confirmation. However, on the latter date, an intact specimen was pulled from the wrack line on Crane’s Beach a few miles south in Ipswich (FS).

Cyrano Darner (Nasiaeschna pentacantha): In addition to a few scattered reports from northern Worcester County and Essex County, one in Middleborough on 8 June (FS) was a first for Plymouth County and the southeasternmost record for the state.

Unicorn Clubtail (Arigomphus villosipes): A male captured and photographed in Greenfield on 11 September (RP, PS) was exceptionally late, a month beyond the typical flight period for this pond species.

Spine-crowned Clubtail (Gomphus abbreviatus)[E]: A female of this small clubtail netted on the Nashua River in Pepperell on 3 July (MV et al.) furnished a first Middlesex County record, and the species was found again in Hanover where a female was caught on 26 June (FS). On the Connecticut River, five freshly emerged individuals were in Deerfield on 8 June (BN et al.) and a total of 69 exuviae were collected farther up the river in Gill, most on 4 June (FM, DM).

Beaverpond Clubtail (Gomphus borealis)[SC]: Several exuviae in Huntington on 24 May (DM) filled provided a first for Hampshire County, and the species was also found at three sites in northern Worcester County (DS et al.) and two in Franklin County (BN et al.).

Rapids Clubtail (Gomphus quadricolor)[T]: A female collected adjacent to the Connecticut River in Sunderland on 8 June (MV et al.) provided a first for Franklin County and only the fourth record for the state.

Cobra Clubtail (Gomphus vastus)[SC]: One female from the Connecticut River in Sunderland on 19 June (JL et al.) was the only adult reported, but 2074 exuviae collected at a study site in Gill (FM, DM) was more than five times the number found at the same site in 2001.

Skillet Clubtail (Gomphus ventricosus)[SC]: Although no adults were reported this year, three exuviae were found at a study site on the Connecticut River in Gill in mid June (FM, DM).

Southern Pygmy Clubtail (Lanthus vernalis): This diminutive clubtail was present again in “more or less normal numbers” on unspecified dates in Norwell (FS), but went unreported otherwise.

Brook Snaketail (Ophiogomphus aspersus)[SC]: A male was photographed in Concord on 4 June (RW) and several were in Sunderland on 21 June (JL et al.).

Rusty Snaketail (Ophiogomphus rupinsulensis): At least two on the Nashua River in Pepperell on 3 July (MV et al.) provided a first for Middlesex County, while several freshly emerged individuals were on the Connecticut River in Sunderland/Deerfield on 8 June (BN et al.).

Riverine Clubtail (Stylurus amnicola)[E]: No adults were reported this year, but at a study site in Gill, 13 exuviae were found in mid July (FM, DM).

Zebra Clubtail (Stylurus scudderi)[E]: The only report this year came from a traditional site on the Squannacook River in Groton on 3 August (MV).

Arrow Clubtail (Stylurus spiniceps)[T]: This lanky clubtail was found for the first time on the Millers River in Athol, where one male (of several seen) was netted on 7 September (DS et al.); five were found at four sites along the river on 8 September; 10 individuals (including a pair) were present on 18 September (DS); and two were still flying there as late as 2 October (EB). A headless male found floating on the Westfield River between West Springfield and Agawam on 25 August by seven year-old Darrelle Powell (LH) provided another new site for the species. An Ode News trip on the Connecticut River in Sunderland/Deerfield on 10 August (BN et al.) turned up two females, one mature and one just emerging, while further upriver 212 exuviae were found at a study site in Gill, most in the latter half of July (FM, DM).

Arrowhead Spiketail (Cordulegaster obliqua): This impressive dragonfly was reported from six sites: two individuals were in Sherborn on 11 June (BB); four in Mendon on 20 June (GH); two in Foxboro on 29 June (BN et al.); and two in Hanover on 9 July (FS). Males netted in Royalston on 4 June (MV) and Petersham on 14 July (MV et al.) were the westernmost yet recorded in the state.

Umber Shadowdragon (Neurocordulia obsoleta)[SC]: A teneral female was found dead in a spider web on the bank of the Connecticut River in Sunderland on 8 June (FM et al.), while exuviae were found at a previously unknown site in Halifax on 29 June (FS). This crepuscular dragonfly also was seen again in Norwell (FS)

Stygian Shadowdragon (Neurocordulia yamaskanensis)[SC]: A freshly emerged female on the Connecticut River in Deerfield on 8 June was the only adult of this species reported, though 23 exuviae were found at a study site in Gill (DM, FM). This newly state-listed species has been found in Massachusetts only along the Connecticut River.

Ski-tailed Emerald (Somatochlora elongata)[SC]: A male was netted over a mucky puddle along a pipeline cut in Petersham on 14 July (BN et al.), and others were in Warwick on 18 July (MV), Royalston on 21 July (DS et al.), and Savoy on 24 July (MV).

Forcipate Emerald (Somatochlora forcipata) [SC]: This newly state-listed species was found again in Ashburnham, where four males were netted along an old railroad bed on 30 June (MV et al.).

Incurvate Emerald (Somatochlora incurvata)[T]: A male collected at a bog in Ashburnham on 4 August (BN et al.) furnished just the third site known for this late summer species in Massachusetts.

Mocha Emerald (Somatochlora linearis)[SC]: This southern emerald was reported from several sites in eastern Massachusetts: an immature male in Holliston on 29 June (BN); a male in Foxboro on 29 June (BN, JL); a male in West Newbury on 14 July (RH); and a male caught over a power line cut on the Braintree-Holbrook line on 29 July (FS)

Ebony Boghaunter (Williamsonia fletcheri)[E]: One male seen in the Quabbin area of Petersham on 4 May (DH) was both record early and at a new site for the species, while two males netted at a small boggy wetland in Warwick on 2 June (DF et al.) were also at a new site and a first for Franklin County. At least 10 individuals at a traditional site in Petersham on 8 May (with three more there two days later) (MN), were also unusually early. One was found again in Ashburnham on 18 May (MV).

Ringed Boghaunter (Williamsonia lintneri)[E]: This rare dragon was found at four sites: a single individual in Concord on 27 April (KH); singles in Canton on 1 May (JL) and 5 May (JT) with two there on 10 May (FS); three in Ipswich on 5 May (JM); and one in Groton on 24 May (BC); the last a new site for the species.

Needham’s Skimmer (Libellula needhami): Two females (one collected) in Cohasset on 4 July (FS) provided a first modern Norfolk County record for this southern coastal species. This species was also confirmed on Nantucket for the first time this summer (FS). Historic records of the very similar Golden-winged Skimmer (Libellula auripennis) from the island predate the 1943 description of Needham’s Skimmer and likely pertain to this species instead.

Painted Skimmer (Libellula semifasciata): At least four males, one captured and photographed, at a tiny bog in Warwick on 1 June (DS et al.) provided a first Franklin County record for this distinctive southern skimmer. At the other end of the state, 70+ individuals at a small, boggy swale in the dunes of Provincetown on 4 July (BN) was a notable concentration.

Elfin Skimmer (Nannothemis bella): This species was again abundant at several sites, including one in Foxboro where four were still present on the very late date of 8 September (BC).

Although these seasonal summaries focus on those species that were reported, often at least as significant are those species that went unreported. State-listed species that apparently were missed this season included: Tule Bluet (Enallagma carunculatum); Scarlet Bluet (Enallagma pictum); Pine Barrens Bluet (Enallagma recurvatum); Subarctic Darner (Aeshna subarctica); Harpoon Clubtail (Gomphus descriptus); Midland Clubtail (Gomphus fraternus); Riffle Clubtail (Ophiogomphus carolus); Lake Emerald (Somatochlora cingulata); Coppery Emerald (Somatochlora georgiana); and Kennedy's Emerald (Somatochlora kennedyi).

Migration: For the second consecutive year, migratory movements of dragonflies were few and mostly unimpressive, the only exceptions being on Plum Island where Rick Heil again made almost daily observations and witnessed several northbound movements, one of exceptional magnitude.

The first notable flight occurred on 27 June when hot southwest winds blew 1000+ Spot-winged Gliders, 25 Black Saddlebags, 20 Common Green Darners, 3 Twelve-spotted Skimmers, and “dozens” of Seaside Dragonlets up the island. Also present this day were 3-4 small, drab darners that Rick thought were Taper-tailed Darners (see page 4).

The really big flight occurred on 2 July, when Rick tallied over 50,000 dragonflies! The following is taken from Rick’s account:

“Today all hell broke loose! An amazing flight of intense magnitude transpired. The weather was very hot (85-92º F) with only moderate SW and W winds (10 mph), a cold front still a day away, off to our northwest, and a big High over the Ohio River Valley pumping a very warm and humid air mass into the Northeast.”

“I arrived on the scene at noon and it was immediately obvious that a major flight was already taking place. Over the course of the next eight hours I did periodic but regular one minute counts of dragonflies passing by my position. All of the dragonflies were engaging in a remarkably purposeful, and direct flight due north, at low altitude, in a comparatively narrow stream perhaps 300-400 meters wide that encompassed the dunes and 100-200 meters of salt marsh. Beyond these points on either side there appeared to be few present. The intensity picked up dramatically just following a few bursts of sea breeze that overtook the general westerly flow around 1730 hrs, which apparently had the effect of a "clear out." Several more bursts of sea breeze over the course of the next hour visibly deflected the now intense stream of odes much higher (300-1000 ft.) and inland such that all of the dragons were then high up over the salt marsh and virtually none over the dunes. By 1830 hrs., even though the sea breeze had subsided, comparatively very few odes were apparent.”

Over the several hours of observation, Rick’s totals were: 7100 Common Green Darners (a maximum of 200/minute from 1800 – 1830 hrs.); 5900 Blue Dashers (a maximum of 80/minute from 1730 – 1830 hrs.); 38,000(!) Spot-winged Gliders (a maximum of 300/minute from 1730 – 1830 hrs.!); one (only) Wandering Glider; and 4 Twelve-spotted Skimmers. Several species not known to be migrants were also part of this movement, including one unidentified striped emerald (Somatochlora sp.), 7 Common Whitetails, and one Four-spotted Skimmer. Also present again were nine small darners that Rick was quite certain were Taper-tailed Darners.

On 30 July, Blue Dashers — a species previously seen only in small numbers among other migrants but clearly a major player in the movements on Plum Island this summer — streamed across the island; between noon and dusk Rick counted 7100 individuals, along with 450 Wandering Gliders, 35 Spot-winged Gliders, 18 Common Green Darners, and singles each of Black Saddlebags, Calico Pennant, Eastern Amberwing, and Sedge Sprite. The latter three species are not known to be resident on Plum Island, but neither are they known to migrate, so their presence seems more likely to represent downwind dispersal rather than typical migration (though whether any odonate movements can be considered “typical” migration is debatable, the line between migration and dispersal being very unclear).

Away from Plum Island, the only northbound movement of note was reported in Provincetown at the tip of Cape Cod on 4 July where, in one hour early in the morning, Blair Nikula counted 330 Spot-winged Gliders, and single Black Saddlebags and Twelve-spotted Skimmers moving along the outer beach in blistering heat.

Southbound movements were virtually nonexistent, the only reports coming from Westport, on the south coast of Massachusetts, where Brian Cassie and Dick Hildreth again monitored autumn butterfly migration and in the process kept track of migrant dragonflies. They saw very few dragonflies (or butterflies), the only thing close to a flight occurring on 12 September when 105 Common Green Darners, 90 Black Saddlebags, 2 Carolina Saddlebags, and 6 Spot-winged Gliders were tallied.

2002 Dragonfly Institute

Dave Small

The Athol Bird and Nature Club hosted the 3^rd annual Dragonfly Institute at the Millers River Environmental Center in Athol with 22 enthusiastic students enrolled. The class, coordinated by ABNC president Dave Small, featured some of Massachusetts’ premier naturalists sharing their knowledge of and enthusiasm for odonates.

The five evening programs were followed by full day explorations of varied habitats in the Millers River Watershed in North Central Massachusetts. Class topics included: the basics of dragonfly identification, dragonfly life history and behavior, and documentation of rare and unusual species. The goal of the course was to provide participants with the basic skills of odonate identification as a solid base for the continued study and enjoyment of these amazing creatures.

This year’s classroom presentations began with an introduction to dragonflies by Blair Nikula, co-author of the Stokes’ Beginner's Guide to Dragonflies. Returning lecturers included Gail Howe (institute co-founder), Chris Leahy, and Bob Bowker of Mass Audubon; plus Jennifer Loose and Lynn Harper of the Mass Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program. The Institute also had special help in the field from members of the Ode News team.

Highlights in the field included a first Franklin County record for Painted Skimmer (Libellula semifasciata) in Warwick; Ebony Boghaunter (Williamsonia fletcheri) and Beaverpond Clubtail (Gomphus borealis) in Warwick and Royalston; New England Bluet (Enallagma laterale) in Athol, Orange, and Royalston; Elfin Skimmer (Nannothemis bella) and Ski-tailed Emerald (Somatochlora elongata) in Royalston; Martha’s Pennant (Celithemis martha) at two locations in Athol; Banded Pennant (Celithemis fasciata) in Athol and Orange; numerous American Rubyspots (Hetaerina americana) in Athol, Orange and Erving; and late season Arrow Clubtails (Stylurus spiniceps) for Athol, Orange, and Wendell.

We all look forward to more fun and excitement in 2003 exploring our great region.

RHODE ISLAND ATLAS: 2002 Summary

Virginia Brown

The fifth season of the Rhode Island Odonata Atlas was characterized by low water, a marked increase in records of southern species, a dearth of river species, and a change of place for both the project and the collection. As of this writing, we have not yet received all of the collected 2002 material from volunteers, and the dragonfly season is certainly not over yet. However, the dedicated group of Atlas field volunteers has produced approximately 1100 specimens to date, and the odonate collection has grown to about 11,000 specimens. The contribution of these volunteers and others involved in clerical duties and collection management is enormous. Approximately 550 volunteer hours were logged in 2002, most of these in the field. This figure will be slightly larger as end-of-season field forms and material come in. One hundred forty (140) sites were visited in 37 of Rhode Island’s 39 townships. Only Block Island and Barrington were left un-sampled, but both of these townships received intensive effort in the first two years of the Atlas (1998 and 1999).

Although we did not add any new species to the Rhode Island fauna this year, during the five years of this project the state’s odonate list has grown from 114 species to 133 species, increasing by 16.6% with the added effort of volunteers and staff. Many new records for both common and rare odonates were found in 2002. Distributions were completed for two widespread, abundant species: the Blue Dasher (Pachydiplax longipennis) and the Fragile Forktail (Ischnura posita). That is, specimen vouchers have been taken for these species in every Rhode Island township. A number of other species, including the Common Green Darner (Anax junius), Ruby Meadowhawk (Sympetrum rubicundulum), Eastern Forktail (Ischnura verticalis), and Slender Spreadwing (Lestes rectangularis), also have nearly complete distributions. These and other species are needed from fewer than 5 and as little as one additional township.

Early in the 2002 season, a new population of the Ringed Boghaunter (Williamsonia lintneri) was discovered in Richmond, bringing the total number of populations for this rare dragonfly in Rhode Island to 24. Richmond, with its abundance of shallow graminoid fens and relatively large areas of forest, supports 9 populations of this species, 37.5% of the state’s lintneri populations. The new Richmond site is less than a mile from two other wetlands containing breeding populations of Ringed Boghaunters and well within flight distance of two others. The close proximity of lintneri populations in Richmond suggests that dispersal occurs between sites. A few of the fens in the Richmond metapopulation support large source populations, while others contain very small numbers of animals on a yearly basis, and still others support lintneri only in certain years. Although we have no data on the size of the new Richmond population, we intend to conduct exuvial (larval shell) counts in 2003 in order to quantify it.

Also of great interest in 2002 was an “incursion” of a southern dragonfly not previously reported during the course of this project (1998 to present). The Taper-tailed Darner (Gomphaeschna antilope) was first collected in New England in June 1996 in Exeter, Rhode Island. It remains rare in New England, documented outside of Rhode Island at only five Massachusetts sites. After a six year hiatus, antilope reappeared here in good numbers in 2002. In June, a male was collected in Charlestown, followed shortly by a male from South Kingstown, where several were seen at one time. Coincidentally, on the same day the South Kingstown animal was collected, antilope was again observed, this time in a West Greenwich gravel pit. Four to six individuals were seen foraging at the West Greenwich site, but avoided capture. Although we still have no evidence of reproduction in the state, antilope is a bog species and all observations have been made near appropriate habitat.

Two other southern odonates were present in Rhode Island in good numbers this year. The Blackwater Bluet (Enallagma weewa) was collected at several stations along the Pawcatuck River in Charlestown, South Kingstown, and Richmond. It apparently is thriving in our state, with large breeding populations known from five localities in southern Rhode Island. To date, Rhode Island is the only place in New England where the Blackwater Bluet is known, making the new discoveries extremely significant. The nearest population continues to be in the twin forks area of Long Island. Coppery Emeralds (Somatochlora georgiana) also appeared in the state in traditional as well as new locations in 2002. This southern dragonfly, the rarest in its genus and a conservation target for The Nature Conservancy, is well-documented in Rhode Island and is breeding here in several locations. Like the Taper-tailed Darner, it is represented in New England only by populations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. It is a late season stream species that has been encountered regularly in large mixed groups of foraging dragonflies including other members of the genus Somatochlora as well as Aeshna and Anax (mosaic and green darners). New populations were found in 2002 in Charlestown and Foster, and are significant in that female vouchers were taken and ovipositing females observed, confirming breeding at these sites. Two locations in Rhode Island now have records for all three of these southern species, making them strongholds for some very rare New England odonates. It is likely that we are seeing the evidence of significant recent range expansions in at least two of these species, though the dynamics of these populations and their movements remain puzzling.

In contrast to the large numbers of southern odonates reported in 2002, several dragonflies normally abundant and widespread on forested streams or in temporary waters were either completely absent or encountered on only a few occasions. These include the Twin-spotted Spiketail (Cordulegaster maculata), Delta-spotted Spiketail (Cordulegaster diastatops), and the Mocha Emerald (Somatochlora linearis). The marked absence of these species in 2002 was as disappointing as it was interesting. Both the spiketails and the emeralds are impressive in size, color, and behavior, a challenging trio to work with. Their rarity this year may have been a response to weather conditions such as droughts which occurred in recent years. The drought of 2000 reduced stream flow dramatically, and may have impacted the larval stage of these and other dragonflies. Two species of rainpool gliders, the Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens) and the Spot-winged Glider (P. hymenaea) were also rarely encountered in 2002. These dragonflies breed in temporary rain pools and ponds, ephemeral habitats that were scarce throughout the northeast in this drought year.

In September of 2002, the Rhode Island Odonata Atlas, staff, and growing collection were moved from The Nature Conservancy office in Providence to the Rhode Island Natural History Survey at the University of Rhode Island’s Coastal Institute in Kingston. As we close out the 2002 season and prepare for our sixth and final field season, we would like to acknowledge the cadre of loyal volunteers who are the backbone of the Atlas, and who have assisted with every aspect of this project including the recent move. We also appreciate support from the Rhode Island Natural History Survey, The Nature Conservancy, and the Rhode Island Foundation.

CONNECTICUT 2002 HIGHLIGHTS

Mike Thomas & Dave Wagner

The 2002 field season produced few surprises, with no state records and only three new county records. Many species were overlooked, especially some of the river gomphids such as Harpoon Clubtail (Gomphus descriptus), Midland Clubtail (G. fraternus), and Riverine Clubtail (Stylurus amnicola).

Observers: Andy Brand, Greg Hanisek, Jay Kaplan, Noble Proctor, Fred SaintOurs, Dori Sosensky, Mark Szantyr, Mike Thomas, Dave Wagner, Bill Yule. Connecticut state-listing designations: [E] = Endangered; [T] = Threatened; [SC] = Special Concern.

American Rubyspot (Hetaerina americana): Two males of this striking damselfly were photographed along the Naugatuck River in Harwinton on 9 September (NP), close to the site where they were discovered last year. This species is believed to be declining statewide (only three extant populations) and has been proposed for state listing as a species of Special Concern.

Great Spreadwing (Archilestes grandis): For the third consecutive year, this southern spreadwing was found in New Haven County (North Branford), providing strong evidence it is a permanent resident. Several individuals were netted on 8 September along the rocky shoreline of Lake Gaillard (NP).

Dusky Dancer (Argia translata): Two new sites were discovered for this uncommon dancer: Pomperaug River in Southbury on 22 August and Pitch Reservoir in Morris on 28 August (GH).

Slender Bluet (Enallagma traviatum): A tandem pair collected on a small vegetated pond at the base of Mohawk Ski Slope in Cornwall on 14 July provided a first for Litchfield County (MT).

Citrine Forktail (Ischnura hastata): This local coastal species was seen in a grassy seepage area at a sand pit in Old Saybrook, along with large numbers of Elfin Skimmers (Nannothemis bella) and Eastern Red Damsels (Amphiagrion saucium) on 27 May (NP, BY). Citrine Forktail reports were fewer compared to previous years, perhaps due to the prolonged drought conditions of the last two seasons.

Comet Darner (Anax longipes): Several sites where this species has been fairly reliable in past years were completely dry throughout the summer months. The only report was of a female ovipositing at Cross Lane Pond in Old Lyme on 1 July (NP).

Spatterdock Darner (Aeshna mutata): This early season darner was found again at a number of sites in Hamden (New Haven Co.), Simsbury (Hartford Co.), and Windham (Windham Co.) (BY, MT, DW), as well as new sites in Branford and Hampton (NP). Once considered rare in Connecticut, it has recently been reported from all but one county (Fairfield).

Cobra Clubtail (Gomphus vastus) [SC]: Although efforts to locate larvae of this elusive Clubtail were unsuccessful in early spring, a single larva was found in fine sand sediments overlaying a heavily armored section of the Connecticut River in the vicinity of Kings Island in Enfield on 31 August (MT).

Zebra Clubtail (Stylurus scudderi): Up to five individuals were seen on the Hollenbeck River in Canaan on 18 August (MT). A second population was discovered further south on the Pomperaug River in Southbury on 22 August (GH), providing much excitement for several observers through mid September (AB, DS, MS). A third tentative sighting was from the Naugatuck River on 9 September (NP). This species has been proposed for state listing as a species of Special Concern.

Arrow Clubtail (Stylurus spiniceps) [SC]: Larvae and adults were found to be common on sections of the Farmington River between Simsbury and East Granby, approximately 20 miles upstream from the confluence with the Connecticut River, on 14–18 September (JK, MS, MT).

Umber Shadowdragon (Neurocordulia obsoleta): Exuviae of this crepuscular species were collected from a bridge abutment on the Pomperaug River in Southbury on 2 June (FS), providing a first New Haven County record. This species was previously known only from the Connecticut River.

Stygian Shadowdragon (Neurocordulia yamaskanensis): Like clockwork, three males were observed patrolling on the Connecticut River along a boat dock in Cromwell on 28 June between 8:30 PM – 8:45 PM (MT).

Ski-tailed Emerald (Somatochlora elongata) [SC]: A female ovipositing at the edge of a small, manmade fire-retention pool in Mohawk State Forest, Cornwall on 13 July (GH) provided the first evidence of breeding activity within the state. Ski-tailed Emeralds have now been documented from three sites, all in the northwest corner of the state.

Ringed Boghaunter (Williamsonia lintneri) [E]: Four individuals of this rare, spring-flying denizen were reported from a known breeding site in Hampton on 23 May (NP).

Blue Corporal (Ladona deplanata) [SC]: This early season coastal plain species was observed in Lyme on 21 May, establishing a new early date (NP).

ADDITIONS TO THE MASSACHUSETTS ENDANGERED SPECIES LIST

Jennifer Loose

The Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) maintains a list of rare and threatened species that are protected under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA). In conjunction with this list, NHESP maintains a database of listed species occurrences, including locality, habitat description, potential and observed threats to the site, and species persistence. MESA protects listed species on the basis of biological information in the NHESP database. This includes rare species endemic to the region such as the Banded Boghaunter (Williamsonia lintneri), an inhabitant of sphagnum bogs, and the Pine Barrens Bluet (Enallagma recurvatum), a coastal plain pond species. MESA also protects species that are found in rare and threatened habitats in Massachusetts, such as many of the clubtails inhabiting the Connecticut River.

NHESP regularly reviews the status of listed species and considers additions, deletions, and changes in status. This past year NHESP added five species of Odonata to the state list. There are approximately 165 species of Odonata occurring in Massachusetts, of which 32 are now state-listed. The complete list of state-listed species is available online at:

http://www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/nhrare.htm

NHESP's locality and persistence data is an invaluable tool for conservation of threatened Odonata in Massachusetts. This data is used to guide land protection, biological survey efforts, and environmental review of proposed development projects. NHESP works to prevent, reduce, and/or mitigate adverse impacts of development on listed species. Observations of listed Odonata contributed by both avocational naturalists and professional biologists are invaluable to all such efforts.

NHESP began recording rare species data in the 1970s. Records for listed Odonata have accumulated slowly but steadily. During the past two years the number of records has almost doubled, from 198 records in 2000 to 368 in 2002 (not yet including this past season’s records). The recent proliferation of field guides (including one to be published by NHESP this spring!), along with many birders expanding their interests into the realm of dragonflies, have given a huge boost to our knowledge of the local Odonata. If you have records of listed Odonata, please contribute to the NHESP database. Data forms can be downloaded at the NHESP web site:

http://www.state.ma.us/dfwele/dfw/nhesp/anml_obs.htm

We prefer forms accompanied by clear photos and/or voucher specimens. If the voucher is to be deposited elsewhere, please indicate the depository on the observation form. All forms must include a map of the precise observation site. Free maps can be found at:

www.topozone.com.

Thanks to all of the past and future contributors to the NHESP database. For further information on the Massachusetts Natural Heritage Program, endangered species, the listing process, or just general questions regarding Odonata, please contact me:

Jennifer Loose, Invertebrate Zoologist

Natural Heritage & Endangered Species Program

Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife

Westborough, MA 01581

Jennifer.Loose@state.ma.us

508 792-7270 x313

Odonates added to the Massachusetts List of

Endangered, Threatened, and Special Concern Species

Scarlet Bluet (Enallagma pictum) – Threatened: A species of acidic, sandy-bottomed ponds; restricted to the Northeast.

Subarctic Darner (Aeshna subarctica) – Threatened: A boreal species that reaches the southernmost extent of its range in Massachusetts; found in sphagnum bogs with pools.

Stygian Shadowdragon (Neurocordulia yamaskanensis) – Special Concern: Found across the northeastern U.S. and southeastern Canada. A species of large rivers and lakes; known only from the Connecticut River in Massachusetts.

Forcipate Emerald (Somatochlora forcipata) – Special Concern: A northern bog species whose range extends south into the northern Appalachians.

Incurvate Emerald (Somatochlora incurvata) – Threatened: A bog species restricted to the Northeast.