Libellulidae, Skimmer Family
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:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This skimmer acquired its name from the marks on the wings. There are twelve black spots, three per a wing, and eight white spots, two per a wing. The brownish male has a white abdomen. The brown female has yellow stripes down the abdomen with faded white marks on the wings. Twelve-spotted skimmers are large and strong flyers. The length of the body varies from 2.0 to 2.2 inches.
Description of Habitat/Range:
This species is common throughout United States and southern Canada. It is usually found at ponds, marshy-bordered lakes, bogs, and slow streams. It is widely distributed throughout Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Late May to early September in Wisconsin.
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