I have seen the rust colored dragonfly on my fireglow maple on different days, It likes a particular leader branch which has a bud that is about going to open. I looks like it might be sucking the sap. I thought dragonflies are beneficial and eat insects. Out of 3 branches one has the leave unfolding properly the other 2 branches the bud is turning black and curling. Is the dragonfly causing any damage?
I think adult dragonflies are carnivorous. Perhaps they are laying eggs or feeding on whatever is causing the damage to the leaves?
Hi, The dragonfly is not sucking on your maple. Don't kill it! It's simply finding a perch to rest on and seems to like your maple. FWIW, dragonflies are amazing creatures with incredible eyesight! When I was a boy I'd watch dragonfly nymphs catch and eat tadpoles and fish. My friends and I would throw small rocks (at the same time) and watched in amazement as the dragonfly dodged all of them as it hovered over the water. More info on dragonflies and what they eat (click on the FAQ): http://www.dragonflysoc.org.uk/frameset.htm?home&home Layne
