American Xyelid Sawfly vs Calico Pennant

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute American Xyelid Sawfly Calico Pennant
Scientific Name Xyela bakeri Celithemis elisa
Order Hymenoptera Odonata
Family Xyelidae Libellulidae
Size 3-5 mm 28-37mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Pollen Feeders Herbivores
Regions Western North America North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

American Xyelid Sawfly

A minute primitive sawfly native to western North America with the family's characteristic elongated third antennal segment. Adults appear in early spring.

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Did You Know?

Despite being among the most primitive Hymenoptera, xyelid sawflies are highly specialized in their larval diet, feeding exclusively on pine pollen.

Calico Pennant

A small dragonfly with triangular red or yellow wing spots creating a calico pattern. Males have red body and wing markings while females have yellow. It perches delicately on vegetation tips.

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Did You Know?

Its patterned wings inspired its 'calico' name, resembling the printed cotton fabric of the same name.