Libellulidae, Skimmer Family
"Most Wanted" Species
Status-Global/State:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
A dark dragonfly with variable black wing patterns, this species varies from 1.2 to 1.5 inches in length. Juveniles have yellow markings on face, side of thorax, and abdomen that turn black in males as they age. The females' coloration is similar to juveniles.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Found throughout the eastern United States, this species prefers permanent ponds and lakes, especially clear-water borrow pits or sand-bottomed lakes. Its main range extends northwest to Indiana, parts of lower Michigan, and southern Illinois. Currently known to occur at a single location in Wisconsin, it should be looked for in the southeast corner of the state.
Please report any sightings and evidence of breeding (pairs in wheel, ovipositing females, tenerals, nymphs, or exuviae) to the Wisconsin Odonata Survey.
Please report any sightings and evidence of breeding (pairs in wheel, ovipositing females, tenerals, nymphs, or exuviae) to the Wisconsin Odonata Survey.
Flight Season:
Throughout northern part of its range, the flight season is from late May to early September.
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