American Xyelid Sawfly vs Eastern Pondhawk
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | American Xyelid Sawfly | Eastern Pondhawk |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xyela bakeri | Erythemis simplicicollis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Odonata |
| Family | Xyelidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 55-63 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Pollen Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Western North America | North America, Central 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.
Did You Know?
Despite being among the most primitive Hymenoptera, xyelid sawflies are highly specialized in their larval diet, feeding exclusively on pine pollen.
Eastern Pondhawk
A robust skimmer dragonfly where mature males are powdery blue and females are vivid green. It is an aggressive predator that ambushes prey from low perches.
Did You Know?
Eastern pondhawks are fierce predators that regularly attack and eat other dragonflies, including species larger than themselves.