Downy Emerald Cordulia aenea

Most dragonflies have smooth, sleek bodies, but this emerald keeps it fuzzy. A coat of fine hairs gives it a velvety appearance that looks almost delicate under magnification. Add its shimmering metallic green-bronze body and brilliant emerald eyes, and you've got one of nature's jewels. Adults are compact—just 2 inches long—and squeeze their entire flying season into May through July, making each month count before they vanish.