Wisconsin Odonata Survey title graphic Wisconsin Odonata Survey graphic Wisconsin Odonata Survey graphic Wisconsin Odonata Survey graphic Wisconsin Odonata Survey graphic

Cordulegaster obliqua
Arrowhead Spiketail

(Say, 1839)
Cordulegastridae, Spiketail Family
photo of Male arrowhead spiketail
Male arrowhead spiketail — Dan Jackson
Status-Global/State:
Global: G4 Wisconsin: S3
Distinguishing Characteristics:
Compared to the twin-spotted spiketail, the arrowhead spiketail's yellow markings are larger and paler. The dorsal arrowhead markings on the slender abdomen are easy to notice. The male's abdomen is slightly clubbed while the female ovipositor (appendages at end of the abdomen) extends the length of a segment beyond the abdomen. The length of the body varies from 2.8 to 3.2 inches. The eyes are green. The female is similar in appearance to the male.
Description of Habitat/Range:
This species is commonly found throughout eastern United States and some parts of Canada. It is usually found at forest rivulets that are spring-fed and have a muck bottom, sometimes with rocks or in small rapid streams. It is infrequently found at scattered locations throughout Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Mid-June to late July in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male arrowhead spiketail
Male arrowhead spiketail — Dan Jackson
photo of Male arrowhead spiketail
Male arrowhead spiketail — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male arrowhead spiketail thorax
Close-up of male arrowhead spiketail thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male arrowhead spiketail face
Close-up of male arrowhead spiketail face — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of male arrowhead spiketail cerci
Side (top image) and top view of male arrowhead spiketail cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female arrowhead spiketail
Female arrowhead spiketail — Dennis Paulson
This site is produced in conjunction with the Wisconsin Aquatic and Terrestrial Resources Inventory and sponsored by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The information presented on this site is subject to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' Legal Notices, Disclaimers, and Terms of Use.