Gomphidae, Clubtail Family
Status-Global/State:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The males of most of the "hanging" clubtails (genus Stylurus) have long, slender abdomens. When perched on leaves, the bodies are pulled down by their weight, creating the appearance of "hanging" clubtails. This greenish yellow, slender dragonfly is striped with black . The body varies from 2.0 to 2.5 inches in length. On the thorax, there are 2 complete lateral black stripes, near base of abdomen, differing from the riverine clubtail's stripes. The face is tawny with blue eyes. The male has the upper face black. At end of the black abdomen, there are large yellowish lateral spots on the club. Along the abdomen, there are small yellow spots on the top. The legs are black.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Ranging in eastern United States, from Tennessee to Ontario, the elusive clubtail often likes large rivers and large lakes with sandy bottoms, sometimes also with silt and gravel. Uncommon in Wisconsin, it is distributed throughout western part of the state.
Flight Season:
Early June to late September in Wisconsin.
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