Dragonflies through Binoculars

[Terry Morse]

_Dragonflies through Binoculars_ is now available.  I've received my
copy from the International Odonata Research Institute
(http://www.afn.org/~iori/) and given it a first lookover.  If you
are interested in North American dragonflies, you really need this
book.  The photos are generally clear, but are not sufficient by
themselves to identify all species.  The species accounts contain
significant supplementary identification and natural history
information, as well as range maps and field marks that distinguish
similar species.

Based on my perusal of the photos and species accounts, I'd say that
for many species you would have to get a very good, prolonged look to
identify them with confidence, which isn't always possible with
highly active species.  This comment has more to do with the
limitations of binocular identification than the quality of Dunkle's
field guide.

On the Odonate-L discussion list, there has been some argument (by an
artist) that drawings or paintings are more suitable than photographs
for illustrating field marks (the Peterson's field guide approach),
and I think there is some merit to this.  Not all of the important
identification marks on a dragonfly are visible from any one angle,
and it is easier to illustrate multiple angles and magnifications
with drawings.  However, until someone does a comparable field guide
with drawings rather than photographs, this is a must-have book for
dragonfly enthusiasts.

Even with this book, it would be a good idea to net some dragonflies
for a closer look to confirm your identifications (the species
accounts include features that may be observed with a dragonfly in
hand).  As the author states, there is still an important role for
collecting in moderation, so that your identifications can be
confirmed by those who come after you.

Terry