Blue-eyed Setwing Dythemis nigra

Talk about a name contradiction: nigra means black, yet this dragonfly earned its 'blue-eyed' common name for those striking ocular features. Belonging to the Setwing genus — a Neotropical group known for their incredible agility — this insect is built for precision hunting in its tropical habitat. The contrast between a dark body and brilliant blue eyes makes it unforgettable in the field. Setwings are characterized by how they 'set' their wings during flight, a behavior that gives the entire group its memorable name.