The tranquility of a popular Rhode Island beach was shattered on Saturday when it was invaded by a massive swarm of dragonflies, causing a stir among the sunbathers.
Misquamicut State Beach, situated approximately 50 miles from Providence, was the scene of this unusual spectacle, with thousands of these insects buzzing through the crowd. The event led some to flee, while others sought refuge under their towels.
According to The Independent, Stephanie Martin, a beachgoer, described the incident as a "dragonfly apocalypse." By around 12:45 pm, the beach was teeming with "millions" of these insects, as reported by Helene Dombrowski, who, like many others, captured the extraordinary event on her phone.
The insects in question were identified as Common Green Darner dragonflies, known for their extensive summer migrations across North America. These journeys often involve crossing rivers, ponds, and other bodies of water at speeds reaching 18 mph. These carnivorous predators, which can grow up to 5 inches in length, typically feed on mosquitoes, moths, and even small fish.
John Nelson, who was at the beach with relatives from Germany, saw the event as an awe-inspiring natural spectacle. "When it ended, many people around us actually applauded the show," he shared.
This is not the first time that a Rhode Island beach has been the site of such a phenomenon. In 2021, Narragansett Town Beach was similarly inundated with these winged creatures. Virginia "Ginger" Brown, a Rhode Island biologist, suggested to NBC 10 News that the dragonflies might pause their migration to wait out storms before resuming their journey. Lifeguards have noted that these insects are typically seen in early September.
The Columbus Audubon provides insight into the behavior of these dragonflies, stating, "Male green darners are aggressively territorial, patrolling a patch of pond and physically ramming any intruders. If a receptive female should enter the territory, the male performs a looping aerial display."
Despite the unsettling scene, no injuries were reported among the beachgoers. Brown, reflecting on the event in 2021, stated, "Even for those of us who study dragonflies and are out all the time, that experience is magical." This sentiment was echoed by many who witnessed the spectacle, viewing it as a testament to the wonders of nature rather than a cause for alarm.
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