One Way Ticket

  It seems that most of the South is talking about the hoards of dragonflies that have been visiting.  This mass migration is something to behold when you can view it from across the water or an open field. Millions upon millions of dragonflies come flitting across the area without taking a break until nightfall.  The critters fly southward on their long journey just like birds do in preparation for the winter.  It is an arduous flight for the insects.  They average a good forty or more miles in a week.  While this seems like pitiful progress according to the "instant" rate that humans and larger animals travel but when you consider the minute size of the dragonflies, you will come to realize that covering that distance in proportion to their body size is pretty amazing.

  The last few days has seen the migration in full swing.  Being on the pier gives one a perfect view of the insects as they buzz across the water.  Some grow weary and a strong wind can knock them into the Bay.  Those usually do not survive as a fish is ready to nab this tasty meal.  The others, however, welcome the marsh as a resting point. There, they can rejuvenate to carry on their journey at daylight.  While dragonflies fly southward for the winter, they do not make the return trip.  Those who fly south, mate, lay eggs then eventually die.  It is the next generation that heads north come springtime.  The dragonflies have a one-way ticket to the Deep South but they are more than welcome to come and just stay!  

  The recent rains have caused the mosquitoes to multiply substantially. Those and their larvae are a favorite food of the dragonflies and their nymphs.  The circle of life continues and Mother Nature always has an answer as long as humans do not interfere.  Silly Humans!  Stop meddling and let Mother Nature do her job!