The meadowhawks (genus Sympetrum) are small skimmers of mid-late summer and early fall. Wisconsin hosts 8 species and although most are common, they can be extremely difficult to tell apart, especially without capture. Coloration on the face, legs, and wing veins are important for identification, but even with good photos a conclusive ID may be impossible. Below are two individuals that are either Cherry-faced (S. internum) or Ruby Meadowhawk (S. rubicundulum). Females and juveniles are impossible to differentiate visually and the same might be said for adult males. However, some sources suggest mature male Ruby Meadowhawks show (1) dull yellow to yellow brown faces (reddish-brown to red in Cherry-faced), and (2) black veins along the leading edge of the wings (orange in Cherry-faced). I think the two dragonflies below "could" be Ruby's but I have no experience with that species. Have an opinion? Leave a comment and help me out.