Identification

Field Marks

• Average adult size is from approximately 3.0 to 3.5 inches
• Small head
• Green eyes
• Yellow face with fine black line across it.
• First and second thoracic stripes mostly fused
• Third and fourth thoracic stripes mostly fused
• Long black legs with spines on the tibiae
• Black abdomen with yellow spear shaped top spots to segment 7
• Triangular top spot on segment 8 with segments 9 and 10 all black on top
• Small club widest at segment 9

Identification

Field Marks

• Female coloration is similar to that of male
• Yellow side spots on abdomen are larger on females than they are on males
• Less clubbing on female than on male

Behavior

Often found perched on vegetation on the shore with abdomen hanging down or flat on rocks or ground. Ambushes prey from perch. Prey consists of butterflies, including monarchs, wasps and hornets, Jewelwings, other dragonflies and other insects. Flies with abdomen hanging down in a "J" shape

Habitat

Typically moderate to swift flowing rivers and streams. Also lakes, although less frequently.

Reproduction

Males patrol territory on shoreline looking for females. Females lay eggs alone by tapping the water with her abdomen to release eggs. Female's are wary during egg laying and will often rise up from the water to survey in between taps.