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Somatochlora williamsoni
Williamson's Emerald

Walker, 1907
Corduliidae, Emerald Family
photo of Male Williamson's emerald
Male Williamson's 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: S4
Distinguishing Characteristics:
This is a dark striped emerald that has obscure markings at maturity. The length of the body varies from 2.0 to 2.3 inches. In the young adult stages, the Williamson's emerald is similar to the ski-tipped emerald. As the Williamson's emerald matures, the lateral thoracic spots fade, making these two species easier to tell apart. The females are similar to clamp-tipped emeralds' females.
Description of Habitat/Range:
Common throughout southeastern Canada and northeastern United States, including the Appalachian Mountains, it is usually found at slow streams and lakes, and sometimes bog lakes. It seems to prefer shaded habitats. This species is fairly widespread throughout much of Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Late June to early September in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
photo of Male Williamson's emerald
Male Williamson's emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Male Williamson's emerald
Male Williamson's emerald — Dan Jackson
photo of Side (top image) and top view of male Williamson's emerald cerci
Side (top image) and top view of male Williamson's emerald cerci — Dan Jackson
photo of Close-up of male Williamson's emerald thorax
Close-up of male Williamson's emerald thorax — Dan Jackson
photo of Female Williamson's emerald
Female Williamson's emerald — Ryan Brady
photo of Female Williamson's emerald abdomen tip
Female Williamson's emerald abdomen tip — Dan Jackson
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