Species of the genus Libellula (king skimmers) often perch on shoreline vegetation, are stout bodied, and usually have distinctive body and wing patterns.

Status-Global/State:

Global: G5     Wisconsin: S5    

Distinguishing Characteristics:

This species is easily distinguished by the wide pale shoulder bars on top of the thorax that are white in males, gray in females, and tan in juveniles. The male has white on the basal half of the abdomen and the female has a limited amount of white there as well. The wings are clear. The immature chalk-fronted corporals are more of a brownish color. The length of the body varies from 1.6 to 1.8 inches.

Description of Habitat/Range:

Commonly found throughout Canada and northern United States, this species is usually found at ponds, swamps, marshes, lakes, and bogs. It seems to like slow water with emergent vegetation. In Wisconsin, it is abundant and widely distributed throughout the state.

Flight Season:

Early May to early October in Wisconsin, with the peak in the spring.