Gomphidae, Clubtail Family
Status-Global/State:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
Stocky and green, the boreal snaketail varies from 1.6 to 1.9 inches in the body's length. There are a few brown-black stripes on the thorax. The face has black cross-stripes, similar to the smaller extra-striped snaketail. On the brown-black abdomen, there are many narrow green dorsal spots. The legs are mostly black with pale thighs. Ophiogomphus species are very similar to each other in some aspects, careful inspection is needed to identify those snaketails.
Description of Habitat/Range:
This species ranges in northern United States and Canada, farther north than any other clubtails. It is usually found at clear sand-bottomed or gravel-bottomed rapid streams and rivers. It is infrequently found in northern counties of Wisconsin.
Flight Season:
Early June to late August in Wisconsin.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
