Identification

Field Marks

• Average adult size is approximately 2.3 inches
• Black and light yellow to white in color
• Green eyes with bold facial markings
• First pair of thoracic strips are almost completely merged
• Oval yellow spots completely surrounded by black on top of thorax between the wings
• Segment 3 to 7 ringed in yellow
• Yellow triangular top spots on segments 8 and 9
• Irregular shaped side spots on segments 7 - 9
• Male have a wide club, with segments 8 and 9 much wider than segment 10

Field Marks

• Females are patterned like males except more of a deeper yellow color compared to males who are light yellow to white
• Females club is not as extensive as males
• Females have a thin dorsal line extending from the rings on the abdomen

Behavior

Males are very territorial. They are often seen flying close to the water, usually over riffles, patrolling or chasing off competitors. Females are secretive and rarely seen.

Habitat

Swift clean rivers and streams preferably with a sandy bottom.

Reproduction

Mating and copulation usually takes place high in tree branches. Females make brief trips to lay eggs by tapping their abdomen on the water, usually over riffles, and then retreat back to the trees.