Identification

Field Marks

• Average adult size is approximately from 1.1 to 1.3 inches
• White face
• Reddish brown eyes
• Red and black thorax and base of abdomen
• Black legs
• Black patches at base of wings with red veining
• Abdominal segments 4 to 10 black with red top spots on segment 4 to 7
• Dark terminal appendages
• Cerci barely longer then epiproct

Field Marks

• Whiteface with reddish brown and yellow eyes
• Yellow and black heavily patterned thorax and base of abdomen
• Black abdomen with yellow top spots on 3 to 7 and side spots on segments 3 to 6
• Black patches at base of hind wing with yellow veining
• Subgenital plate with 2 knobs that come together

Behavior

Males typically perch low in the vegetation and defend a small territory around them. Females can often be found perched on the ground or light object on the ground, such as a log, away from the water until they are ready to mate.

Habitat

Coldwater fens, marshes, and bog ponds with a lot of low, dense vegetation

Reproduction

Mating typically takes place in flight away from the water. Females lay eggs by dipping into the water, often by sedge beds, while the males hover guard