Identification
Mature males distinctive slaty blue, sometimes almost black. Females differ from Great Blue Skimmers in having femora that are all black; see print references for other details.
Habitat
Ponds or slow-moving strems with muddy bottoms, often near woodlands
Season
Most of warm months in Florida, summer only farther north.
Food
Predatory, takes flying insects. Feeds from perches along edge of woodlands.
Life Cycle
Males defend territories along shores of ponds, most active in morning. Females oviposit alone, using abdomen to throw eggs to shore or into open water. They are usually guarded by male from above.
Remarks
A common species, tolerant of moderately polluted suburban ponds and the like.
See Also
Libellula vibrans - Great Blue Skimmer--in adult males, note white face and blue eyes of Great Blue Skimmer, also pattern on leading edge of wing
Print References
Dunkle, pp. 183-184, plate 33
(1)
Contributed by
Cotinis on 9 March, 2004 - 5:19pm
Additional contributions by
ceisemanLast updated 22 October, 2009 - 2:01am
