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Dromogomphus spinosus
Black-shouldered Spinyleg

Selys, 1854
Gomphidae, Clubtail Family
photo of Male black-shouldered spinyleg
Male black-shouldered spinyleg — Dan Jackson
Status-Global/State:
Global: G5 Wisconsin: S4
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This yellowish dragonfly is rather large with wide black shoulder bands and black abdomen with yellow marks. It is easily recognized by the unusually long spines on the back legs.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Common throughout eastern United States and southeastern Canada, this species is usually found at medium to large rapid streams, rivers, windswept lakes and ponds with rocky shores. It is widely distributed throughout northern two-thirds of Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
In Wisconsin, the typical flight season is early June to late August.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male black-shouldered spinyleg
Male black-shouldered spinyleg — Dan Jackson
photo of Male black-shouldered spinyleg
Male black-shouldered spinyleg — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature male black-shouldered spinyleg
Immature male black-shouldered spinyleg — Jim Lind
photo of  Close-up of male black-shouldered spinyleg face
Close-up of male black-shouldered spinyleg face — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male black-shouldered spinyleg thorax
Close-up of male black-shouldered spinyleg thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of male black-shouldered spinyleg cerci
Side (top image) and top view of male black-shouldered spinyleg cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female black-shouldered spinyleg
Female black-shouldered spinyleg — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature female black-shouldered spinyleg
Immature female black-shouldered spinyleg — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of female black-shouldered spinyleg face
Close-up of female black-shouldered spinyleg face — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of female black-shouldered spinyleg thorax
Close-up of female black-shouldered spinyleg thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Top and bottom view of female black-shouldered spinyleg abdomen tip
Top and bottom view of female black-shouldered spinyleg abdomen tip — Dan Jackson
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