Dragonflies are amongst the most fearsome predators of the animal kingdom. Young dragonflies (or nymphs) are entirely aquatic, hunting underwater creatures with extendable jaws similar to those found on "Alien". Adults are aerial predators, pursuing other flying insects with extreme rapidity. They can be difficult photographic subjects during the day, as they are alert and rarely allow close approach. At night, however, they sleep, and if you are lucky enough to find one photographing them is relatively easy. This speciment was photographed in a suburban backyard in Richmond NSW.
Thanks to Leonard Mueller for identifying this species.