Blue Skimmer vs Common Hawker
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Blue Skimmer | Common Hawker |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Orthetrum caledonicum | Aeshna juncea |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Libellulidae | Aeshnidae |
| Size | Body 4-5 cm; wingspan 6-8 cm | 65-80 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Heathland |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | Australia, New Caledonia, New Zealand | Europe, Asia, 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.
Common Hawker
A large, dark brown hawker dragonfly with blue and yellow spots. It favors upland and moorland habitats across the Northern Hemisphere.
Did You Know?
It is one of the hardiest dragonflies, flying in cool upland conditions where few other species venture.