M.V. Wildlife Refuge Hosts Quest For Damsels & Dragons

By CATHERINE ELLERTON

Moapa Valley Progress

About two dozen young (and not-so-young) nature lovers went on a quest for Damsels and Dragons at the Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge on Saturday. Education Specialist Tim Parker and Visitor Services Intern Jessica Samuelson of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service led the tour of the Refuge – the first ever established for a fish – the Moapa Dace.

The visitors came from throughout the region and beyond. Some came from the Moapa Valley, others from Las Vegas and others still came from Germany – yes, Germany.
Peter Ammon and Andrea Beninde are Flight Attendants for Condor Airlines from Frankfurt on a layover in Las Vegas. They said they enjoy coming to the Moapa Valley to view all the beautiful rocks and to take part in the many activities when in this area.

The subject of the day’s exploration were dragonflies. Before the group took off to find their prey, they were instructed in the physical attributes of the dragonflies. Damsels land with their wings in and Dragons land with their wings out. In order to catch their next meal, the flying beasts either use the “hawking” or “perching” hovering methods.

Vision acuity between eyes on the side of the head vs. eyes on the front of the head was demonstrated in part by Shayton Beaston. Proper netting and scooping techniques were discussed and off we went.
One group zealously chased the flying bugs and another headed to the stream to capture the Mayfly, Riffle Beetle (Elmidae) and Whirligigs.
Young Kyen Neil demonstrated the proper scooping method to the second group. All the insects captured were examined and discussed and then released back into the wild.

Another day in the great out-of-doors learning of the many “residents” found there was enjoyed by all.