Corduliidae, Emerald Family
Status-Global/State:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The racket-tailed emerald is more slender and fragile-looking than most other emeralds. The length of the body averages about 1.1 inches. They have a metallic green thorax with brown hairs, black legs, and clear wings. The eyes are metallic green, seemly luminous. The abdomen is thinly haired bronze-green. Its black abdomen is almost shaped like a spatula with a narrow tip.
Description of Habitat/Range:
It is commonly found throughout northeastern United States and southeastern Canada. It prefers ponds, lake coves, bogs, and bog-edged slow streams. In Wisconsin, it is fairly common throughout most of the states.
Flight Season:
Late May to late August in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
