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:
The four-spotted skimmer has small dark marks on the wings at the nodus and near the base. The thorax is gray-brown with hairs. The abdomen is gray-brown with narrow lateral yellow stripes. The female lacks the flange of the male, near the end of the abdomen. A very active dragonfly, it will eat other smaller dragonflies.
Description of Habitat/Range:
This species is commonly found throughout Canada and northern United States, including mountains in the west. It is usually found at boggy wetlands, slow streams, and borrow pits. It is very common and widely distributed throughout Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Early May to mid-August in Wisconsin.
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