The western willow spreadwing (Chalcolestes viridis) is a truly striking insect, shimmering in metallic green. Unlike most damselflies, which tend to stay low among reeds and other waterside vegetation, this species spends much of its time high in the trees—especially in willow and alder canopies. Its breeding behavior is just as remarkable. Rather than laying eggs directly in the water, the female uses her sturdy, sword-like ovipositor to cut small slits into the bark of overhanging branches. The eggs remain safely sheltered inside the wood throughout the winter. In spring, when they hatch, the tiny larvae simply drop from the branches into the water below, where they continue their development. I came across this beautiful damselfly in the botanical garden in Porto. Even though I was using some older photography gear, I was really pleased with how the images turned out.