Our insect of the week for April 27, 2026 is Lestes rectangularis [ODONATA: Lestidae]. This species was described by the American entomologist, Thomas Say in 1839. Yes, another species he described posthumously. This species has the common name slender spreadwing. We may have learned some time ago that dragonflies hold their wings in one pose when resting (outstretched) while damselflies hold their wings together over their back. Of course, most rules in biology are made to be broken and this rule is no exception. You probably guessed from the name that these damselflies hold their wings outstretched (like dragonflies).

The abdomen of adults is nearly twice as long as their wings. This species is found throughout the eastern United States and eastern Canada. There is some sexual dimorphism in adults. You may encounter adults from May to September in central Illinois. Adults may live for up to 6 weeks. Females tend to deposit eggs individually in cattails (often without the male being present). This is a rather unusual behavior for this genus. Although nymphs can be found in ponds, lakes and marshes, adults may be found quite some distance from water sources. Nymphs seem to prefer aquatic habitats which are in wooded or forested areas.

The specimen in the photo below was collected by our former member, Gordon Adams, in Peoria County.