Flame Skimmer

Libellula saturata

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Odonata
Suborder: Anisoptera
Family: Libellulidae
Genus: Libellula
Species: saturata

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Libellula saturata: /lɪˈbɛluːlə ˌsætʃʊˈreɪtə/

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Summary

The flame skimmer (Libellula saturata) is a common dragonfly in western North America, characterized by its vivid coloration in males and more muted tones in females. It thrives in warm aquatic environments and has specific feeding habits as both nymphs and adults.

Physical Characteristics

Male flame skimmers have an entirely red or dark orange body, including eyes, legs, and wing veins. Females are usually medium or darker brown with some thin yellow markings. Naiads are large and chubby-looking with a rounded abdomen, covered with hair but lacking hooks or spines.

Identification Tips

Males are bright red or dark orange, while females are brown with some yellow markings. Size ranges between 49-61 mm (approximately 2-3 inches).

Habitat

Warm ponds, streams, or hot springs; also found in public gardens and backyards.

Distribution

Western and Southwestern United States.

Diet

Nymphs feed on aquatic insects like mosquito larvae, aquatic fly larvae, mayfly larvae, freshwater shrimp, small fish, and tadpoles. Adult skimmers feed on moths, flies, ants, and other soft-bodied insects.

Life Cycle

Breeding occurs from May to September. The female lays eggs by dipping the end of her abdomen into water, often depositing eggs in various locations to prevent naiads from preying on each other.

Reproduction

Males compete for prime breeding locations and females. After mating, females lay eggs in warm streams or ponds.