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Pantala hymenaea
Spot-winged Glider

(Say, 1839)
Libellulidae, Skimmer Family
photo of Male spot-winged glider
Male spot-winged glider — Dan Jackson
Status-Global/State:
Global: G5 Wisconsin: S4
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This brownish dragonfly is best known for its gliding flying style, much like the wandering glider. The hindwings form an elongated triangle, longer than abdomen, broad at base and reaching halfway down the abdomen. The abdomen is tapered and mottled gray-brown. The face is yellow to orange. Mature males have red faces.
Description of Habitat/Range:
This species is common in United States and southern Canada. It is common in southwest, while it is mostly migratory elsewhere. Primarily, the spot-winged glider prefers temporary ponds and pools in the open, including brackish waters. But it also can be seen over fields, clearings, etc, well away from water. It is infrequently seen at scattered locations throughout Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Late June to mid-September in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male spot-winged glider
Male spot-winged glider — Dan Jackson
photo of Male spot-winged glider
Male spot-winged glider — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male spot-winged glider face
Close-up of male spot-winged glider face — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male spot-winged glider thorax
Close-up of male spot-winged glider thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Female spot-winged glider
Female spot-winged glider — John & Cindy Anderson
photo of Immature female spot-winged glider
Immature female spot-winged glider — Dan Jackson
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