Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata)

In the US, found primarily in south FL and south TX, although known to stray northward. Nearly the size of a Common Pondhawk, they are much larger than other eastern US dragonlet species.
Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata) Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata), male
Miami-Dade Co., FL
9 Aug 2003

Males are distinct with dark bodies and dark bands in each wing.


Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata) Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata)
Collier Co., FL
31 Dec 2008

Brown form females and immature males are much less well marked! Note overall olive-tan coloration, unmarked thorax sides, and dark lateral spots on abdomenal segments.

Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata) Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata)
Collier Co., FL
31 Dec 2008

Fond of perching on twigs about a meter off the ground, these were locally very common in partially shaded weedy areas near coastal mangroves at Rookery Bay Reserve on this particular day.

Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata) Band-winged Dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata)
Collier Co., FL
31 Dec 2008

Dragonlets, like many skimmers, often perch with wings cocked forward.



Back to Jeff's Odes Page | Back to Jeff's Nature Page

Created on ... Jan 9, 2009 | jeffpippen9@gmail.com