Twelve-Spotted Skimmer

Description:

This is a fairly large dragonfly with a length of about 2 inches. Each wing is marked with 3 dark spots: one near the base where it attaches to the body, one in the center than nearly spans the width of the wing, and one at the tip.

Habitat:

This dragonfly is found near lakes, ponds and marshes, particularly those with exposed shorelines.

Notes:

I found this dragonfly on Hwy 29 near Pine Lake. Adult flight season is from early June to late August. It will eat almost any soft-bodied flying insects including mosquitoes, flies, butterflies, moths, mayflies, and flying ants or termites. They also serve as prey for birds and frogs.