DRAGONFLIES AND DAMSELFLIES

Variegated Meadowhawk, Sympetrum corruptum

Order: Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies)

Size: Up to 1 3⁄4"

Habitat: Ponds, streams, wetlands

Range: Throughout the contiguous United States (more common in the West)

As with other members of this family, the Variegated Meadowhawk has large compound eyes, a long and thin abdomen, tiny antennae, and two pairs of wings of nearly equal size. It also holds its wings spread flat when at rest (unlike damselflies that hold their wings closed over the back). It is relatively dainty for a dragonfly and is colored dark brown or reddish overall, with two yellowish spots on the sides of the thorax and an intricately patterned abdomen. The wings have a pinkish or golden cast and a dark patch near the apex. The nymphs are aquatic, with gills, and feed on aquatic insects. Adults spend most of their time in flight or perched on branches, and prey on flying insects. Northern individuals migrate as far south as Central America in the winter. The adult male is illustrated.