Treefollowing: Last Year's Tree & a Carboniferous Pond

Remember this tree? (August 2022)

Given how lovely it's been in the Laramie Mountains, I decided to check on the Balsam Poplar I followed last year instead of this year's junipers. Indeed it was a gorgeous day at Happy Jack, and warm enough, even at 8000 ft, that I chose the shady trail.
The old poplar was as I remembered—long past its prime yet still producing leaves. No matter that the canopy is less than magnificent, the trunk sprouting suckers. This is an impressive tree!

Canopy catching the sun.

Ancient trunk with vigorous suckers.

In keeping with tradition, we finished the hike with a visit to the Carboniferous Pond, named for its multitude of dragonflies.

Dragonflies are so abundant here that I accidentally nabbed one in this photo (arrow, click to view).

To get an actual dragonfly photo, I tried a new strategy—focusing the lens and waiting until one flew across my field of view. Results (or luck) seemed to improve with time. Dragonflies are quick and "spectacularly agile ... they can propel themselves upwards, downwards, backwards, forwards, side to side, and they can even hover in midair! This is due to the magnificent construction of their two sets of wings." (more here)

Dragonfly against reflections of sky, clouds, sedges—très artistique?

Got one,

... and another,

... and another,

... etc.

Finally a good one, with wings! (click to view)

This is my contribution to the monthly gathering of tree followers kindly hosted by The Squirrelbasket. Looking for a good time? Join us!