Blue Skimmer vs Carolina Mantis
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Blue Skimmer | Carolina Mantis |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Orthetrum caledonicum | Stagmomantis carolina |
| Order | Odonata | Mantodea |
| Family | Libellulidae | Mantidae |
| Size | Body 4-5 cm; wingspan 6-8 cm | 47-60 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Farmland |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Australia, New Caledonia, New Zealand | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Blue Skimmer
A common Australian dragonfly where mature males develop a powdery blue pruinescence over their abdomen. Females and young males are brown and yellow.
Did You Know?
The blue coloring of males is not a pigment but a waxy powder that can be rubbed off with a finger.
Carolina Mantis
The most common native mantis species in the eastern United States, occurring in green, brown, and mottled forms. It is smaller than the introduced Chinese and European mantises.
Did You Know?
Carolina mantises are designated as the official state insect of South Carolina, making them one of the few predatory insects honored with such a title.