A worldwide community photographing and learning about wildlife
Project Noah Nature School
Libellula saturata
Male Flame Skimmers are known for their entirely red or dark orange body, this includes eyes, legs, and even wing veins. Females are usually a medium or darker brown with some thin, yellow markings. This particular type of skimmer varies in size but is generally measured somewhere between two and three inches long. These naiads are known for being rather large and chubby-looking due to their rounded abdomen. They are covered with hair but, unlike most young dragonflies, they lack hooks or spines.
Due to its choice habitat of warm ponds, streams, or hot springs, flame skimmers are found mainly in the southwestern part of the United States. They also make their homes in public gardens or backyards.
A exceptionally large dragonfly (seen ones up to 4" long and 6" wide) that is a joy to watch as it will perch while hunting for prey. Observed at Rio Grande Botanical Gardens regularly throughout the summer and into fall.
Spotted on Jun 1, 2010
Submitted on Feb 5, 2012
No Comments