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Somatochlora elongata
Ski-tipped Emerald

(Scudder, 1866)
Corduliidae, Emerald Family
photo of Male ski-tipped emerald
Male ski-tipped emerald — Dan Jackson
The medium-sized, dark brown striped emeralds have some pale markings on the thorax and abdomen, black legs, clear wings and brilliant green eyes. The thorax has a metallic bronze-green sheen and the abdomen is dark metallic black-green. Most species are uncommonly seen, but this may be largely due to their secretive nature. When flying, most species look alike which is why in-hand identifications of their anatomical features are often needed.
Status-Global/State:
Global: G5 Wisconsin: S2S3
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This dark dragonfly has prominent yellow stripes on the sides of the thorax and a slender abdomen. The body length varies from 2.0 to 2.4 inches.
Description of Habitat/Range:
It is usually found at slow to moderate streams, beaver ponds, and lake inlets/outlets. It is found throughout northeastern United States, including Appalachian Mountains. In Wisconsin, it is found infrequently in northern counties.
Flight Season:
In Wisconsin, the typical flight season is from early June to late August.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male ski-tipped emerald
Male ski-tipped emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Male ski-tipped emerald
Male ski-tipped emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Immature male ski-tipped emerald
Immature male ski-tipped emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of immature male ski-tipped emerald thorax
Close-up of immature male ski-tipped emerald thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of male ski-tipped emerald cerci
Side (top image) and top view of male ski-tipped emerald cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Female ski-tipped emerald
Female ski-tipped emerald — Ryan Brady
photo of Female ski-tipped emerald
Female ski-tipped emerald — Kurt Mead
photo of Close-up of immature female ski-tipped emerald thorax
Close-up of immature female ski-tipped emerald thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of immature female ski-tipped emerald abdomen tip
Side (top image) and top view of immature female ski-tipped emerald abdomen tip — Dan Jackson
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