Grappletail

A member of the family Gomphidae, “Clubtail” dragonflies are characterized by the club-like widening of the end of the abdomen. Note, however, that this feature is less pronounced in females and may be absent from some species. In addition, Clubtails have widely separated eyes, a feature shared with “Petaltail” dragonflies (Family Petaluridae). Grappletail may be distinguished from other dragonflies by a small pair of appendages on the tip of the abdomen which resemble grappling hooks (from which the species derives its name). Dragonflies regulate body temperature through sunlight and can often be seen basking on rocks or logs in the morning. Clubtails are more sensitive to cooler temperatures and tend not to fly on cool or overcast days. This species prefers flowing waters with adequate organic debris cover for larvae.