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Black-tailed Skimmer

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description Black-tailed Skimmer Overview

The Black-tailed Skimmer (Orthetrum cancellatum) is a medium-sized dragonfly species belonging to the Libellulidae family, widely distributed across Europe and parts of Asia. Mature males develop a distinctive pruinose blue coloration on their abdomen, ending in a sharp black tip, while females and immature males display yellow and brown markings. They are typically found near the edges of still or slow-flowing water bodies, such as lakes, ponds, and canals, where males actively patrol low over the water.

help Black-tailed Skimmer FAQ

What is the scientific name of the Black-tailed Skimmer?

The Black-tailed Skimmer is scientifically known as Orthetrum cancellatum. It belongs to the family Libellulidae, the largest dragonfly family.

What does a male Black-tailed Skimmer look like?

The mature male develops a pruinose blue-white coating on its abdomen, contrasting with a distinctive black tip at the end. Females and immature males are yellowish-brown with darker lateral markings along the abdomen.

Where can you find the Black-tailed Skimmer in Europe?

Orthetrum cancellatum is widespread across Europe, from the Mediterranean northward into Scandinavia and eastward into Asia. It favors bare-edged lakes, gravel pits, and slow rivers where males perch on the ground near water.

How does the Black-tailed Skimmer hunt?

Rather than hawking continuously like some dragonflies, the Black-tailed Skimmer often perches on bare ground or stones near water, darting out rapidly to intercept passing insects before returning to the same or a nearby perch. This sit-and-wait strategy is characteristic of the genus Orthetrum.

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