BUTTE CREEK CANYON — Growing up, Roger Lederer was told damselflies could bring good fortune when fishing.

“Whenever I went fishing and a damselfly landed on my rod, it was called a lucky bug. So I would anticipate catching fish any moment,” Lederer, a Chico State professor emeritus of biological sciences, said. “Didn’t work most of the time.”

Dragonflies and damselflies are in peak season across California. The two closely related carnivorous species are busy mating and feasting on small insects. While similar, the two have key differences.

“Dragonflies are heavier bodied and hold their wings perpendicular to their body at rest,” explained Lederer. “Damselflies are more delicate and hold their wings parallel to their body at rest. Dragonflies’ eyes touch in the middle while the damself

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