Ohio Odonata Survey

SOLD OUT!!!

Odonate enthusiasts in Ohio are lucky to have 2 books published in 2002. Dragonflies and Damselflies of Northeast Ohio by Larry Rosche is a localized guide; The Dragonflies and Damselflies of Ohio edited by Bob Glotzhober and Dave McShaffrey (and written by a total of 11 authors) is a comprehensive guide to all of the species in the State.

Commentary by Dave McShaffrey

This small book came out in the spring of 2002. For the many Odonate enthusiasts in Northeastern Ohio, it is a handy guide to 126 species found in northeastern Ohio (Lorain, Medina, Cuyahoga, Summit, Lake, Geauga, Portage, Ashtabula and Trumbull Counties) . The book is beautifully illustrated by Jackie Haley, Jennifer Brumfield and Kevin Metcalf. Like the much bulkier Dragonflies and Damselflies of Ohio, the book has a basic introductory section. It is aimed much more at the amateur naturalist and emphasizes field characteristics. There are times when you won't be able to get a definitive ID from this book, but it is a very useful tool and a lot easier to carry with you into the field.

Most of the book consists of the species accounts, with related species on the same page. There are no keys. Illustrations allow the field characteristics to be emphasized. This sacrifices realism, but is a technique long used in bird and other field guides. There are no distribution maps, but there are 2 pages of "occurrence graphs" showing the time of year each species is active and how likely it is to be seen at that time of year. The spiral binding is useful in the field and the lab, and the paper is heavy and of high quality.

Another useful tool in this book is the section of reference guides at the back of the book. These detailed drawings help one separate similar species based on thoracic or abdominal patterns. There is also a glossary, suggestions for further reading and an index.

Since it covers 126 of the 162 species of Odonata known from Ohio, this book is useful in other parts of the state as well. Also, all of the species are illustated, including a few which are not illustrated in The Dragonflies and Damselflies of Ohio. And, once again, it is small and easy to carry in the field. Order a copy to supplement your two copies of The Dragonflies and Damselflies of Ohio.

To Order:

This book is presently sold out. If more copies become available, instructions on ordering will be posted here.