The first time

I saw a Lancet Clubtail emerge I nearly fell in the water. I was that excited. Truly.

Today, after walking Gracie, I decided to stop by Lake Cheston, where I watched about a dozen Lancets emerge -- all in different stages of development. And this time I was extra lucky: while watching two on one rock, I noticed a larva crawl up out the water on the rock just on the right. Then, throwing caution to the wind (the dam having just been given the Easter weekend close-cut, which usually lets loose the chiggers and ticks), I hunkered for a long while, snapping shot after shot after shot.

I left happy (even if still coming up short with the macro lens).

Survival of the Fittest

This morning's Common Baskettails and Blue Corporals are the lucky ones, despite the rain and wind, making their emergence tricky. 
They spent the winter underwater and successfully managed to avoid being eaten. If only their airy introduction were more welcoming.

Addendum: This crippled Baskettail cannot fly.