Libellulidae, Skimmer Family
Status-Global/State:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The only skimmers with green faces, the ferocious eastern pondhawks can take prey that is their size. The length of the body varies from 1.5 to 1.7 inches. The male is powdered blue while the female is greenish and has black rings on the abdomen. They can appear different at different ages. For instance, a immature male can have a green thorax with other parts purplish. This shows that the male is not juvenile anymore but not quite an adult yet. The color of the males will become obscured as they age.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Common from eastern to central United States with some parts in Canada, it is usually found at ponds, lakes, and slow waters that are associated with floating plants. It is widely distributed throughout Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Early June to early September in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
