Tramea onusta
Hagen, 1861
Red Saddlebags, Red-Mantled Saddlebags
Tramea onusta, commonly called the red saddlebags or red-mantled saddlebags, is a skimmer native to eastern North America. It is recognized by its translucent wings with red and distinctive dark red blotches at the wing bases that resemble saddlebags. The has been observed throughout the eastern United States and is one of seven North American saddlebags species in the Tramea.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Tramea onusta: //ˈtrɑː.mi.ə oʊˈnʌs.tə//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Tramea by the red (rather than black) coloration of the wing and saddlebags patches. Tramea lacerata (black saddlebags) has black blotches and dark wing veins. T. onusta is further distinguished by its primarily eastern U.S. distribution compared to the more widespread T. lacerata.
Images
Appearance
Medium to large with a slender body. Wings are translucent with red and characteristic dark red blotches at the base of the hindwings, creating the saddlebags appearance. The last two abdominal bands and the are black. Body coloration includes red tones on the .
Habitat
Associated with marshy ponds, lakes, ditches, and slow-moving streams. may be encountered away from water during or .
Distribution
Eastern United States. Records indicate presence in North America, Middle America, Caribbean, and South America, though primary range is eastern North America.
Behavior
are strong fliers that glide frequently and perch infrequently. May undertake migratory movements, though specific patterns are less documented than for some .
Similar Taxa
- Tramea lacerata (Black Saddlebags)Similar size and body shape, but distinguished by black (not red) wing blotches and dark wing ; more widespread across North America
- Other Tramea speciesAll share saddlebags wing pattern but differ in coloration of patches and geographic range
More Details
Taxonomic Note
One of seven North American in the Tramea, commonly called saddlebags due to the distinctive wing markings.