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Celithemis eponina
This is the largest, most widely distributed, and perhaps most colorful small pennant species in the region. Its common name is descriptive because of its distinctive orange and brown or black wings. The face is yellowish or olivaceous, becoming darker with age and red in males. The thorax is yellowish-green with a dark middorsal stripe and narrow lateral stripes on the sutures. Size: length: 30-42 mm; abdomen: 20-30 mm; hindwing: 27-35 mm.
Lakes, ponds, borrow pits and marshes with emergent vegetation. This mating pair was photographed along the Bartram Trail adjacent to Lake Thurmond in Columbia County, GA.
Males are not territorial, perch near edge of ponds, waiting for incoming females. Mating typically takes place in the morning. Oviposition is in tandem. Frequently seen perched on weeds in fields as it forages, pivoting with the wind. Predatory on other insects.
Spotted on Aug 26, 2011
Submitted on Feb 18, 2013
2 Comments
Great catch, Ken! Notice the subtle difference in color of the male- and female pterostigmas.
Great Timing!