description Elfin Skimmer Overview
The Elfin Skimmer (Nannothemis bella) is a small dragonfly in the family Libellulidae and the smallest dragonfly species native to North America, with adults measuring roughly 20–25 millimeters in length. Males develop a powdery blue coloration on the abdomen, while females are patterned with yellow and black. It inhabits bogs, fens, and Sphagnum moss wetlands across eastern North America.
help Elfin Skimmer FAQ
What is the smallest dragonfly in North America?
The Elfin Skimmer (Nannothemis bella) is the smallest dragonfly species native to North America. Adults measure roughly 20–25 millimeters (about 1 inch) in total length. Their incredibly tiny size makes them very easy to miss in their natural habitat.
What do male and female Elfin Skimmers look like?
Male Elfin Skimmers develop a powdery blue coloration on their abdomen, known as pruinescence, as they mature. Females, on the other hand, are patterned with black and yellow to help them camouflage in the grass. The females' coloring closely resembles wasps, which helps protect them from predators.
What type of habitat does the Elfin Skimmer prefer?
Because of their small size, Elfin Skimmers are weak fliers and cannot withstand strong winds or fast-moving water. They prefer sheltered, grassy bogs, fens, and marshy wetlands. They spend most of their time staying very low in the vegetation to avoid being blown away.
What family does the Elfin Skimmer dragonfly belong to?
The Elfin Skimmer is part of the family Libellulidae, which includes the common skimmers. It belongs to the genus Nannothemis, of which it is the only known member. This specific genus name literally translates to "dwarf skimmer," fitting its tiny physical stature.
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