Several Bar-winged Skimmer dragonflies (Libellula axilena) were spotted on 10 June 2016 at a vernal pool located in Huntley Meadows Park (HMP).
The first individual is an immature male. Notice the white “frosting” at the base of his hind wings — one of several key field markers for Bar-winged Skimmer.
10 JUN 2016 | HMP | Bar-winged Skimmer (immature male)
The last individual is a mature male. His body (thorax and abdomen) is covered completely by blue pruinescence that masks the coloration he displayed as an immature male.
10 JUN 2016 | HMP | Bar-winged Skimmer (mature male)
Related Resource: Bar-winged Skimmer dragonflies (Libellula axilena) look similar to Great Blue Skimmer dragonflies (Libellula vibrans). Several key field markers can be used to differentiate the two species of dragonflies, as shown in the following blog post by Walter Sanford (featuring several annotated images): Bar-winged Skimmer dragonfly (mature male).
Copyright © 2016 Walter Sanford. All rights reserved.
Tags: Bar-winged Skimmer dragonfly, Huntley Meadows Park, immature male, Libellula axilena, mature male, Skimmer Family, terminal appendages, vernal pool, wetlands, wildlife photography
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