This is a Black Saddlebags Skimmer (Tramea lacerata) resting on a reed. I watched this species for 3 outings and never saw them land. Then walking back to my vehicle there it was. The dark wingspots give it its name. While in flight it does indeed appear to be carrying baggage. Most species seem to be territorial with their perches and if I scared one off I only had to be still, stealthy and patient...and it returned to the same perch.

Canon t3i with Canon 70-200 mm lens handheld.

Crop and sharpen.