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Autumn Meadowhawk

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description Autumn Meadowhawk Overview

The Autumn Meadowhawk (Sympetrum vicinum) is a small species of dragonfly belonging to the skimmer family. It is native to North America and is notable for its unusually late flight season, with adults often remaining active into November. The species can be identified by its reddish-orange coloration in males and yellowish-brown bodies in females, as well as its pale yellowish legs.

help Autumn Meadowhawk FAQ

When does the Autumn Meadowhawk fly?

The Autumn Meadowhawk (Sympetrum vicinum) is a North American dragonfly notable for its unusually late flight season. While many dragonflies die off in late summer, the Autumn Meadowhawk remains active well into November, sometimes flying even after the first frost.

What does an Autumn Meadowhawk look like?

The species is small and can be identified by its bright red or reddish-brown body, which is typical of skimmer dragonflies. The females, however, are usually brown or tan, and both sexes have pale yellow legs that distinguish them from similar species.

Where can I find Autumn Meadowhawks?

Autumn Meadowhawks are native to North America and can be found near ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams across the United States and southern Canada. They prefer calm, still water where they lay their eggs, often lingering in sunny spots in the late autumn.

How does the Autumn Meadowhawk survive the cold?

Like many dragonflies, they are cold-blooded and rely on the sun to raise their body temperature for flight. They survive late into the year by perching in direct sunlight to stay warm and retreating into leaf litter or sheltered areas to survive freezing nighttime temperatures.

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