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Broad-wing damsels usually have wide wings held somewhat above the body
Pond damsels have narrow wings that are usually carried parallel to the body
Spreadwings have stalked wings that are usually held partly open
In some cases the wings may be tinted, usually an amber shade but occasionally smoky
Especially in broad-winged damsels, the size and color of wing spots may be important
Helpful Hint: The wings are an easy key to family identification in damselflies. If your insect has broad wings, it most likely belongs to the Broad-winged Damsel family. If your insect has narrowed wings help parallel to the body, it's in the Narrow-winged Damsel family. Relatively large stalked wings held partly open define the Spreadwing family.