Widow Skimmer

You can identify a Widow Skimmer (Libellula luctuosa) by the prominent dark patches at the base of its wings and its frosted white body, known as pruinescence, which is especially visible on mature males. Females and immature males lack the white pruinescence but retain the distinct dark wing bands. They belong to the Libellulidae family, commonly known as skimmers.

Widow Skimmers are found across a broad range of North America and are typically spotted near ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams. They prefer still or sluggish water where they can easily hunt for smaller insects. Look for them resting on twigs or reeds near the water's edge during the summer months.

The scientific name of the Widow Skimmer is Libellula luctuosa. It belongs to the Libellulidae family, which contains a large variety of common dragonflies. The Latin name "luctuosa" references the "widow" like appearance given by the dark wing patches.

Unlike some well-known dragonfly species like the Green Darner, Widow Skimmers are not known for long-distance migrations. They typically stay in their preferred habitats near ponds and quiet streams year-round, though they may disperse locally. Their life cycle is completed entirely within their established North American range.