Well, my plan to get the less common migratory dragonfly species up last week failed miserably. I was going to try to get it done before I went on my little Labor Day mini-vacation. After working 16 hour days for two weeks before I left, I realized that wasn’t going to happen. ”No problem!” I thought. ”I’ll bring my materials with me so I can do the post while I’m on vacation!” Then I forgot to bring most of the things I needed to do the post. Basically, the plan was doomed from the start! So, I’m finally back home and once again have everything I need to get the post done. Sorry for the delay!
The dragonflies depicted and described here are migratory species, but they’re less commonly observed migrating than the ones included in the common migratory species list. You’ll see these species in swarms, either static or migratory, but you’d want to look here after you look at the pictures of the common species. They’ll make up a smaller part of the swarm or will not swarm with the same regularity that the common species exhibit. Still, I thought this would be a useful resource for people who wish to identify the dragonflies they see swarming in or over their yards.
Like last time, let’s start with the big dragonflies, the darners in the dragonfly family Aeshnidae. This gorgeous animal is the lance-tipped darner (Aeshna constricta):
I think the mosaic darners from the genus Aeshna are some of the most beautiful dragonflies and this one is no exception! Things to look for: Large, 2.8 inches long. Males with brown thorax with blue stripes on the side. No stripes on face of male. Front-most stripe on side of thorax green on half closest to legs, blue on half closest to wings in males. Bright blue markings on abdomen in mature males. Females have all markings either blue, bright green, or yellow depending on form. Females may have orange-brown wing tinting on the half closest to the body, especially in yellow form. Lance-tipped darners are found in the northern half of the United States and in southern Canada. You can tell them apart from other migratory mosaic darners in their range based on the lack of stripes on the face and the wedge shaped cerci (those dangly bits hanging off the back).
This is the lake darner, or Aeshna eremita. This species looks very similar to the other mosaic darners (including the lance-tipped darner above), but it’s the biggest one in the US and Canada. Things to look for: Large, 3.1 inches long. Both sexes with brown thorax. Stripes on side of thorax blue above and green below with a conspicuous notch in the center (this is very easy to see in the of the side of the dragonfly at left). Found in northern United States and southern Canada, with a narrow finger extending southward to Utah and Colorado in the west. You can tell them apart from other migratory mosaic darners in their range based on the size and the big notch in the stripes on the side of the thorax.
Distinguishing the mosaic darners without catching them can be difficult, even for people who know them well! If in doubt, try to get a good photo of the top and side of the dragonfly (like the one above) or get as good a look at the color patterns on the abdomen and the thorax as you can. I’ll tell you where you can send photos or look for good identification information to ID your dragonflies in future post (coming soon!).
The skimmers (family Libellulidae) are much easier to tell apart, especially the migratory species! This one is very easy:
This is the calico pennant (Celithemis elisa), one member of a genus of highly recognizable, medium sized dragonflies. Things to look for: 1.8 inches long. All individuals begin their adult lives with the yellow markings in the of the female, but markings become red as males age. Pattern and coloration of the wings are specific to this single species – if you see this pattern of wing spots, it’s this species. You’ll find this species across the eastern half of the United States and a very small section of extreme southeast Canada.
Meet the seaside dragonlet (Erythrodiplax berenice)! I’ve had a chance to see this beautiful dragonfly on a trip to visit my sister the Park Ranger and it’s a stunner, especially the females. Things to look for: Small dragonfly, only 1.3 inches. Slender bodies. Males start out with some yellow markings on the top of the abdomen, but these fade to black with age. No coloration on the male wings. Females similar shape with yellow markings on top of abdomen. One female form with the black thorax seen in the males, the other (as seen at left, the spotted form) with a series of black and yellow stripes along the thorax. Spotted female with brown spots on wings. Found along the eastern and Gulf coasts and along southwestern lakes with high salt contents.
Now for the king skimmers from the genus Libellula. The first one is the bar-winged skimmer (Libellula axilena):
Things to look for: medium-sized dragonfly, 2.2 inches long. Brown thorax and abdomen. Abdomen with a thick black stripe down the center top. Males may appear white in some areas as they mature due to prunescence. Black markings across the upper surface of all four wings. This pattern is sometimes seen in the slaty skimmer (Libellula incesta), which is found in the same areas and is about the same size. Distinguish the males by looking at the face: slaty skimmers have a brown face while the bar-winged skimmer has a black face. Also, the slaty skimmer is not known to be migratory. Found through the deep south and in the states along the Atlantic coast.
This is the four-spotted skimmer or Libellula quadrimaculata. Things to look for: medium dragonfly, 1.7 inches long. Wings with black spots along top margin of wings, halfway between base and tip. Hindwing with a black triangular spot at the base of the wing. Abdomen brown near thorax and darkening to black near the posterior end, yellow stripes along side. Both sexes similar. Common in the northern half of the US, the Four Corners states, and most of Canada.
This is the great blue skimmer or Libellula vibrans. Note the similarity of the female to the bar-winged skimmer, with which it shares part of its range. Things to look for: medium-large dragonfly, 2.2 inches long. Dark black spot along upper margins of wings, halfway between base and tip, and a black streak at the base of each wing. Tips of wings amber. Male body pale blue-white with blue eyes. Females brown with a black stripe down the center of the abdomen, blue eyes. Distinguish from bar-winged skimmers based on wing coloration patterns and the color of the eyes. Range throughout southeastern US.
This is the blue dasher, also known as Pachydiplax longipennis. Things to look for: Small to medium body, 1-1.7 inches long. Males pale blue-white, sometimes with black and yellow striped thorax, and bright green eyes. Females black with yellow markings on body. May have some coloration on the wings, light brown or amber in color. Found throughout most of the US except the northernmost states of the west-central section. The blue dasher is a very common species in much of its range and is often seen at small ponds, such as those found in yards and small parks.
The variegated meadowhawk or Sympetrum corruptum. This is likely the dragonfly you’re seeing if you see a migratory swarm west of the Mississippi River. Things to look for: Smallish sized dragonfly, 1.5 inches long. Body mostly grey with a red stripe down the center of the abdomen. Red markings wrap around the abdomen as well, demarcating the boundaries of the abdomen’s subsegments. Abdomen also has a series of small, white spots along the lower edge of the side. These spots are more prominent in the females than the males. Females replace the red markings with yellow on the abdomen. Both sexes may look tan as they fly. Found throughout the western half of the US and southwestern Canada.
This species unfortunately looks nearly identical to another meadowhawk (the cherry meadowhawk, Sympetrum internum) and shares its range with it, but this species is a known migratory species and the cherry is not. Things to look for: Small dragonfly, 1.3 inches long. Abdomen red with black markings on sides. Wings veins dark (they’re orange in the cherry meadowhawk). Face yellow or brown (red in cherry meadowhawk). Abdomen rather bulbous where it meets the thorax, narrows through the center, and expands again toward the back. Found throughout the northeastern quarter of the US and parts of southern Canada.
And that’s it for the migratory dragonfly species! Between the common and the less common species, y0u’ll likely find the majority of the dragonflies you might see in swarms in your area. Next time, I’ll go over what’s known about static dragonfly swarms (feeding swarms) and then I’ll make some suggestions for where to go for dragonfly identification information. Until next time!
I am tracking swarms so I can learn more about this interesting behavior. If you see one, I’d love to hear from you! Please visit my Report a Dragonfly Swarm page to fill out the official report form. It only takes a few minutes!
Dragonflies come in a stunning array of colors, from bright reds and neon blues to muted browns. But there’s something particularly special about black dragonflies. With their dark mystique and powerful air, these insects captivate all who are lucky enough to spot them.
While most people are familiar with brightly colored dragonflies zipping by on a summer day, black dragonflies hold a sense of allure They look sleek and stealthy, like they’re on an important secret mission. Of course, dragonflies don’t plot espionage But the appeal of their dark coloring and graceful flight is undeniable.
There are over 5,000 species of dragonflies throughout the world and many feature black coloration. Black saddlebags, American emeralds, and black meadowhawks are just a few of the varieties found across North America. Males tend to have more extensive black sections than females. But even with other colors mixed in, these dragonflies maintain their exotic vibe.
Habitats of Black Dragonflies
Dragonflies thrive near water sources like lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers. Black dragonflies are no exception. They flock to these aquatic habitats to hunt and mate. You’re most likely to spot them resting on vegetation near the water’s edge or buzzing over the surface hunting prey.
Sometimes black dragonflies gather in swarms called hawking swarms. These large congregations form to feed and interact socially. Hawking swarms may contain hundreds of individuals darting about!
Dragonfly larvae called nymphs live underwater and eventually metamorphose into winged adults. After mating, female dragonflies dip back into the water to lay their eggs. So black dragonflies rely on bodies of freshwater for their entire lifecycle.
Diet and Hunting Skills
A dragonfly’s main prey consists of other insects like mosquitoes, midges, and flies. Their spiny legs form the perfect basket for snatching victims out of the air. Black dragonflies patrol their territories, speedily pursuing any prey that crosses their path.
Using superb vision that encompasses almost every angle, black dragonflies rarely miss their target. They can spot prey up to 30 feet away! Their sharp mandibles make quick work of any insect unlucky enough to be caught.
Dragonfly nymphs also hunt underwater, eating small aquatic invertebrates like tadpoles or snails. They use a unique extensible jaw to ambush and consume prey.
So between their nymph and adult forms, black dragonflies help control insect populations, including pesky biters like mosquitoes. That’s one reason why people welcome these predators near waterside properties.
Unique Features of Black Dragonflies
One standout feature of all dragonflies is their four wings. These transparent wings allow effortless maneuverability. By moving each wing independently, dragonflies can fly forwards, backwards, up, down, and sideways. Their flexible abdomens also assist with directional changes.
This combination gives black dragonflies unmatched flying skills. They can reach speeds up to 30 mph but also hover and change direction in an instant. This elite mobility helps them excel at catching prey and evading predators during their brief 2-4 month adult stage.
Another signature trait of dragonflies is their huge eyes, which make up most of the head. Each eye contains up to 30,000 individual lenses or ommatidia. This grants nearly 360-degree vision and rapid processing of movement. Needless to say, it’s almost impossible to sneak up on a black dragonfly!
Symbolic Meanings of Black Dragonflies
In many cultures, black dragonflies symbolize strength, transformation, purity, and prosperity. Their dark coloration represents a connection to primordial wisdom and magic. Since dragonflies thrive near water, they can also represent good luck and harmony.
Some believe black dragonflies signify positive change coming your way. Others think of them as spirit guides offering protection. Or they may herald a time of joy and revival.
Spotting a black dragonfly after a period of hardship or sadness can signal better times ahead. Their appearance reminds us that as life ebbs and flows, each period eventually yields to the next.
So if a black dragonfly catches your eye, consider it an uplifting message and inspiration to embrace new beginnings.
Although small, black dragonflies make a big visual statement with their sleek black bodies and extraordinary flying abilities. They enchant observers with their aerial dances over shimmering lakes and streams across North America.
Black dragonflies represent resilience, prosperity, and promise for many cultures. Their connection to water imbues an aura of fluidity and faith in the cycles of change.
Lucky indeed is the person who spots one of these dark beauties on the wing. For they have witnessed a delicate creature of speed, strength, and the enduring spirit of rebirth.
Aquatic entomologist with a blogging habit
Well, my plan to get the less common migratory dragonfly species up last week failed miserably. I was going to try to get it done before I went on my little Labor Day mini-vacation. After working 16 hour days for two weeks before I left, I realized that wasn’t going to happen. ”No problem!” I thought. ”I’ll bring my materials with me so I can do the post while I’m on vacation!” Then I forgot to bring most of the things I needed to do the post. Basically, the plan was doomed from the start! So, I’m finally back home and once again have everything I need to get the post done. Sorry for the delay!
The dragonflies depicted and described here are migratory species, but they’re less commonly observed migrating than the ones included in the common migratory species list. You’ll see these species in swarms, either static or migratory, but you’d want to look here after you look at the pictures of the common species. They’ll make up a smaller part of the swarm or will not swarm with the same regularity that the common species exhibit. Still, I thought this would be a useful resource for people who wish to identify the dragonflies they see swarming in or over their yards.
Like last time, let’s start with the big dragonflies, the darners in the dragonfly family Aeshnidae. This gorgeous animal is the lance-tipped darner (Aeshna constricta):
I think the mosaic darners from the genus Aeshna are some of the most beautiful dragonflies and this one is no exception! Things to look for: Large, 2.8 inches long. Males with brown thorax with blue stripes on the side. No stripes on face of male. Front-most stripe on side of thorax green on half closest to legs, blue on half closest to wings in males. Bright blue markings on abdomen in mature males. Females have all markings either blue, bright green, or yellow depending on form. Females may have orange-brown wing tinting on the half closest to the body, especially in yellow form. Lance-tipped darners are found in the northern half of the United States and in southern Canada. You can tell them apart from other migratory mosaic darners in their range based on the lack of stripes on the face and the wedge shaped cerci (those dangly bits hanging off the back).
The other less common migratory darner is this one:
This is the lake darner, or Aeshna eremita. This species looks very similar to the other mosaic darners (including the lance-tipped darner above), but it’s the biggest one in the US and Canada. Things to look for: Large, 3.1 inches long. Both sexes with brown thorax. Stripes on side of thorax blue above and green below with a conspicuous notch in the center (this is very easy to see in the of the side of the dragonfly at left). Found in northern United States and southern Canada, with a narrow finger extending southward to Utah and Colorado in the west. You can tell them apart from other migratory mosaic darners in their range based on the size and the big notch in the stripes on the side of the thorax.
Distinguishing the mosaic darners without catching them can be difficult, even for people who know them well! If in doubt, try to get a good photo of the top and side of the dragonfly (like the one above) or get as good a look at the color patterns on the abdomen and the thorax as you can. I’ll tell you where you can send photos or look for good identification information to ID your dragonflies in future post (coming soon!).
The skimmers (family Libellulidae) are much easier to tell apart, especially the migratory species! This one is very easy:
This is the calico pennant (Celithemis elisa), one member of a genus of highly recognizable, medium sized dragonflies. Things to look for: 1.8 inches long. All individuals begin their adult lives with the yellow markings in the of the female, but markings become red as males age. Pattern and coloration of the wings are specific to this single species – if you see this pattern of wing spots, it’s this species. You’ll find this species across the eastern half of the United States and a very small section of extreme southeast Canada.
Next up we have a dragonfly with a very limited distribution:
Meet the seaside dragonlet (Erythrodiplax berenice)! I’ve had a chance to see this beautiful dragonfly on a trip to visit my sister the Park Ranger and it’s a stunner, especially the females. Things to look for: Small dragonfly, only 1.3 inches. Slender bodies. Males start out with some yellow markings on the top of the abdomen, but these fade to black with age. No coloration on the male wings. Females similar shape with yellow markings on top of abdomen. One female form with the black thorax seen in the males, the other (as seen at left, the spotted form) with a series of black and yellow stripes along the thorax. Spotted female with brown spots on wings. Found along the eastern and Gulf coasts and along southwestern lakes with high salt contents.
Now for the king skimmers from the genus Libellula. The first one is the bar-winged skimmer (Libellula axilena):
Things to look for: medium-sized dragonfly, 2.2 inches long. Brown thorax and abdomen. Abdomen with a thick black stripe down the center top. Males may appear white in some areas as they mature due to prunescence. Black markings across the upper surface of all four wings. This pattern is sometimes seen in the slaty skimmer (Libellula incesta), which is found in the same areas and is about the same size. Distinguish the males by looking at the face: slaty skimmers have a brown face while the bar-winged skimmer has a black face. Also, the slaty skimmer is not known to be migratory. Found through the deep south and in the states along the Atlantic coast.
The next king skimmer is this one:
This is the four-spotted skimmer or Libellula quadrimaculata. Things to look for: medium dragonfly, 1.7 inches long. Wings with black spots along top margin of wings, halfway between base and tip. Hindwing with a black triangular spot at the base of the wing. Abdomen brown near thorax and darkening to black near the posterior end, yellow stripes along side. Both sexes similar. Common in the northern half of the US, the Four Corners states, and most of Canada.
And the last king skimmer:
This is the great blue skimmer or Libellula vibrans. Note the similarity of the female to the bar-winged skimmer, with which it shares part of its range. Things to look for: medium-large dragonfly, 2.2 inches long. Dark black spot along upper margins of wings, halfway between base and tip, and a black streak at the base of each wing. Tips of wings amber. Male body pale blue-white with blue eyes. Females brown with a black stripe down the center of the abdomen, blue eyes. Distinguish from bar-winged skimmers based on wing coloration patterns and the color of the eyes. Range throughout southeastern US.
And we’ll finish up with three of the small dragonflies:
This is the blue dasher, also known as Pachydiplax longipennis. Things to look for: Small to medium body, 1-1.7 inches long. Males pale blue-white, sometimes with black and yellow striped thorax, and bright green eyes. Females black with yellow markings on body. May have some coloration on the wings, light brown or amber in color. Found throughout most of the US except the northernmost states of the west-central section. The blue dasher is a very common species in much of its range and is often seen at small ponds, such as those found in yards and small parks.
And last but not least, two meadowhawks! This one is very common:
The variegated meadowhawk or Sympetrum corruptum. This is likely the dragonfly you’re seeing if you see a migratory swarm west of the Mississippi River. Things to look for: Smallish sized dragonfly, 1.5 inches long. Body mostly grey with a red stripe down the center of the abdomen. Red markings wrap around the abdomen as well, demarcating the boundaries of the abdomen’s subsegments. Abdomen also has a series of small, white spots along the lower edge of the side. These spots are more prominent in the females than the males. Females replace the red markings with yellow on the abdomen. Both sexes may look tan as they fly. Found throughout the western half of the US and southwestern Canada.
And finally, the ruby meadowhawk (Sympetrum rubicundulum):
This species unfortunately looks nearly identical to another meadowhawk (the cherry meadowhawk, Sympetrum internum) and shares its range with it, but this species is a known migratory species and the cherry is not. Things to look for: Small dragonfly, 1.3 inches long. Abdomen red with black markings on sides. Wings veins dark (they’re orange in the cherry meadowhawk). Face yellow or brown (red in cherry meadowhawk). Abdomen rather bulbous where it meets the thorax, narrows through the center, and expands again toward the back. Found throughout the northeastern quarter of the US and parts of southern Canada.
And that’s it for the migratory dragonfly species! Between the common and the less common species, y0u’ll likely find the majority of the dragonflies you might see in swarms in your area. Next time, I’ll go over what’s known about static dragonfly swarms (feeding swarms) and then I’ll make some suggestions for where to go for dragonfly identification information. Until next time!
Have you seen a dragonfly swarm?
I am tracking swarms so I can learn more about this interesting behavior. If you see one, I’d love to hear from you! Please visit my Report a Dragonfly Swarm page to fill out the official report form. It only takes a few minutes!
Want more information?
Visit my dragonfly swarm information page for my entire collection of posts about dragonfly swarms!
Unless otherwise stated, all text, s, and video are copyright © 2010 DragonflyWoman.wordpress.com
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FAQ
Is a black dragonfly rare?
The Black darter is a small, narrow-bodied dragonfly that is on the wing from June to October. This is a common dragonfly of moorlands, heaths and bogs.
What does it mean when you see a black dragonfly?
Black dragonflies are often associated with mystery and the unknown. Their presence may indicate that it’s time to explore the hidden aspects of our lives. The black dragonfly invites us to delve into the mysteries of our existence, seeking deeper understanding and self-discovery.
Do black dragonflies sting?
If you see a lot of dragonflies where you live, you may ask whether these winged insects bite. The short answer is yes. Keep in mind, though, that dragonflies don’t have a stinger, so they won’t sting you. They do, however, have teeth.
What does seeing a dragonfly mean spiritually?
Explicit Spiritual Meanings of Dragonflies
Embrace Change: Symbolizes transformation and rebirth. Adaptability: Navigate life’s challenges gracefully. Spiritual Messenger: Believed to carry messages from ancestors or spirits. Balance & Stability: Represents finding balance amidst life’s uncertainties.
What does a black dragonfly mean?
When we see a black dragonfly, it can remind us that it’s never too late to start fresh. No matter what has happened in our past, we always have the power to begin again. Just like the dragonfly, we can choose to fly in any direction we want. 4. Messenger The black dragonfly is seen as a messenger from the spirit world.
Why do you see a black dragonfly?
Seeing a black dragonfly is associated with happy times. These insects are known predators of mosquitoes and mites, some of the worst enemies of time spent outdoors. Black dragonflies are seen as saviors as a result. These insects eliminate other insects and flies that can bite people.
What color is a dragonfly?
Blue is the most common color in dragonflies. It appears on the body, eyes, and wings of dragonflies. The blue dragonfly and the blue emperor dragonfly are two of the most popular species of this color. Blue dragonflies are associated with wisdom, spiritual awareness, and mental clarity.
Why are black dragonflies so powerful?
Black dragonflies are seen as robust insects that are more powerful than other black dragonflies. The strength symbolism of these insects has been known to drive the value of the species in popular cultures across the world. Black dragonflies are also seen as responsible insects, not just dragonflies that are simply powerful.
Are there black dragonflies?
Dragonflies often show patches or bands of black on other backgrounds, alternating stripes of black and some other color or predominantly black backgrounds with other, iridescent colors.
Which dragonflies are rarer?
Yellow: Yellow dragonflies are rarer than their blue and green counterparts. Some examples include the Yellow-sided Skimmer (Libellula flavida) and the Golden-winged Skimmer (Libellula auripennis). Black: The Black Petaltail (Tanypteryx hageni), the Black-tailed Skimmer (Orthetrum cancellatum) and the Black Darter (Sympetrum danae).