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White-faced Darter

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description White-faced Darter Overview

The White-faced Darter (Leucorrhinia dubia) is a small dragonfly in the family Libellulidae native to northern and central Europe. Adults measure roughly 30–35 millimetres in length with dark bodies marked by red (male) or yellow (female) abdominal segments and a distinctive pale, chalk-white frons. The species breeds in acidic peat bogs and boggy pools where sphagnum moss is abundant, making it highly sensitive to habitat degradation. It is classified as threatened or endangered across much of its range due to wetland drainage and climate change.

help White-faced Darter FAQ

What is the average size of the White-faced Darter?

The White-faced Darter is a relatively small dragonfly, with adult specimens measuring roughly 30 to 35 millimetres in length. Their petite size makes them distinct from many of the larger, more robust dragonfly species native to Europe.

How can you tell the difference between male and female White-faced Darters?

Adult White-faced Darters have dark bodies marked by abdominal segments that are red on males and yellow on females. Both sexes share the species' distinctive pale frons, which gives them their common name.

What family does the White-faced Darter belong to?

The White-faced Darter, scientifically known as *Leucorrhinia dubia*, belongs to the family Libellulidae. This is the largest dragonfly family in the world, commonly referred to as skimmers or darters.

Where is the White-faced Darter natively found?

The White-faced Darter is native to the peat bogs and acidic pools of northern and central Europe. They rely heavily on these specific, undisturbed wetland habitats for breeding and hunting small insects.

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