Jewelwings & Rubyspots
What are they?
Members of the Calopterygidae, these damselflies are readily recognized by the dusky coloration of the wings and the way that the broad-tipped wings are folded flat against each other over the back. These are largely insects of moving, fresh water such as streams and smaller rivers, where they flutter conspicuously over the water surface.
Identification
The color and patterning of the wings should distinguish the species. Female jewelwings can be told from males by their white pterostigmas (the spot on the leading edge of the wing).
Sparkling Jewelwing Calopteryx dimidiata
Length: 1.5-1.6 inches. Flight time: Late May to mid September. In New Jersey, this is largely a pine barrens species and in Cape May is restricted to the north of the county where it is uncommon.
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Ebony Jewelwing Calopteryx maculata
Length: 2.0 inches. Flight time: Late April to early October. Jewelwings prefer flowing water rather than still ponds, so are not widespread in Cape May County. However, Ebony Jewelwing occurs in small numbers in a number of locations, mostly in the north of the region.
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