Flame Skimmer Dragonfly Images

Flame Skimmer Dragonfly Images, Facts and Information:

Libellula saturata

• Flame Skimmer dragonflies are large, brightly colored insects with stout bodies, broad wings, and vivid orange to red coloration. Males are brilliant flame-red overall, while females and immature males are golden-brown to amber. The wings are often tinted orange, especially along the leading edges and veins.
• Flame Skimmer dragonflies are native to the western United States and are commonly found from Oregon and Idaho south through California, Arizona, New Mexico, and into northern Mexico. Flame Skimmers inhabit warm ponds, lakes, slow streams, and hot springs, often perching on reeds, rocks, or sunlit branches near the water’s edge.
• Flame Skimmer dragonflies are carnivorous and feed on flying insects such as mosquitoes, flies, moths, and small butterflies. They capture prey midair using their legs to form a basket and consume it while perched.
• Female Flame Skimmers lay eggs on or just below the water surface. The aquatic nymphs, called naiads, live underwater for several months before emerging as adults.
• Flame Skimmer dragonflies are sometimes called “firecracker skimmers” for their brilliant color and fast, darting flight.
• A group of dragonflies is called a “swarm.”

I hope you enjoy viewing my Flame Skimmer dragonfly photos.