Williamsonia lintneri
(Hagen, 1878)
Ringed Boghaunter
Williamsonia lintneri, commonly known as the ringed boghaunter, is a small in the emerald . It inhabits acid bogs in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada, with a restricted range spanning Wisconsin, Michigan, New England, New York, New Jersey, and Ontario. are active early in the season, primarily during May and June. The is distinguished by distinctive rings on the and gray-black coloration.
Identification
Distinguished from the related ebony boghaunter (Williamsonia fletcheri) by the prominent rings on the . Perches flat on ground or tree trunks, unlike other emerald which typically perch on vegetation.
Appearance
Small emerald with gray-black overall coloration. are gray. has prominent rings on each . are clear with yellow at the base. Female has thicker abdomen than male.
Habitat
Acid wooded bogs; occur in pools within these bogs. rarely seen at breeding sites.
Distribution
Restricted range in northeastern North America: Wisconsin, Michigan, New England (including Rhode Island), New York, New Jersey, and Ontario (discovered 2016). Previously considered to the United States.
Seasonality
active primarily in May and June; early-flying within its range.
Life Cycle
develop in pools within acid wooded bogs. emerge in spring. Specific details on larval duration, timing, and developmental stages not documented in available sources.
Behavior
Perches flat on ground or tree trunks, a that differs from other emerald which typically perch on vegetation. rarely observed breeding despite presence of in bog pools.
Human Relevance
Subject of analysis studies due to rarity and restricted range. concern due to limited distribution and specialized bog habitat requirements.
Similar Taxa
- Williamsonia fletcheriEbony boghaunter lacks prominent rings on ; otherwise similar in size and preference