Black-shouldered Spinyleg vs Eastern Pondhawk
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Black-shouldered Spinyleg | Eastern Pondhawk |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dromogomphus spinosus | Erythemis simplicicollis |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Gomphidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 60-70 mm | 55-63 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | North America | North America, Central America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Black-shouldered Spinyleg
A large, elegant clubtail with distinctive spiny hind legs and black shoulder stripes. It perches conspicuously on rocks and logs along streams.
Did You Know?
The spiny projections on its hind legs form a basket used to scoop prey out of the air.
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.