Libellulidae, Skimmer Family
Status-Global/State:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This strikingly marked skimmer has been labeled as the most butterfly-like dragonfly. The body varies from 1.4 to 1.7 inches in the length. It can be identified by its orange wings, spotted and banded with black. Juveniles bear yellow body markings, including a dorsal yellow stripe on the abdomen. In males, the yellow markings become reddish at maturity, including the face, wing veins, stigmas, and body markings. Some females also develop faintly red markings, but they stay pale compared to the males.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Common throughout eastern and central United States and southeast Canada, this species can be found at borders of ponds, borrow pits, lakes, and marshes. It is widely, though locally, distributed throughout Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Late June to early September in Wisconsin.
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