Australian Emerald vs Green Lestes
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Emerald | Green Lestes |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemicordulia australiae | Lestes viridis |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Corduliidae | Lestidae |
| Size | Body 4-5 cm; wingspan 6-7 cm | 39-48 mm body length |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Australia, New Zealand | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Australian Emerald
A metallic green-eyed dragonfly common near ponds and slow streams across Australia. It hovers sentrylike over water, earning its alternate name of Sentry Dragonfly.
Did You Know?
It is sometimes called the Sentry Dragonfly because it hovers motionless over water for extended periods.
Green Lestes
A metallic green damselfly that lays eggs into the bark of overhanging trees. Creates distinctive oviposition scars on willow branches. One of the latest damselflies to fly.
Did You Know?
Uniquely among damselflies, it lays its eggs into tree bark above water rather than into aquatic plants.