Blue Dasher Dragonfly
Scientific Name: Pachydiplax longipennis
Category: insect
Brief Description
A small, common skimmer dragonfly easily recognized by the male's vibrant blue abdomen and green eyes.
Characteristics
Males have a pale blue pruinose abdomen with a black tip, a metallic green thorax, and striking green/teal eyes. Females and juveniles are brownish-yellow with two pale stripes on the thorax. They typically rest with wings tilted forward and down.
Habitat
Found near slow-moving or still water such as ponds, lakes, marshes, and ditches, often perching on low vegetation.
When to Find It
Commonly active from spring through autumn; most active during the warmest parts of the day in full sun.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (Common)
Ecological Role
Acts as both a predator and prey. They are excellent at controlling pest populations by eating mosquitoes, flies, and other small insects.
Easily Confused With
Eastern Pondhawk (Erythemis simplicicollis) - Pondhawks have green faces and entirely blue abdomens without the black tip. Blue Dashers have white faces and black tips on the abdomen.
Observation Tips
Look for them perching on the tips of reeds or garden plants near water. They are territorial and will often return to the same perch after a short flight.
Interesting Facts
The species name 'longipennis' actually means 'long wings,' despite it being a relatively small dragonfly. They are known for their aggressive territorial displays against other dragonflies.
User Notes
On plant