Bush Giant Dragonfly vs Black Darter
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Bush Giant Dragonfly | Black Darter |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Uropetala carovei | Sympetrum danae |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Petaluridae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 80-90 mm body length, 130 mm wingspan | 29-34mm |
| Habitat | Forests | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Europe, Asia, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Bush Giant Dragonfly
New Zealand's largest dragonfly and one of the most ancient dragonfly lineages in the world. Its larvae live in burrows in muddy seepages in native bush for several years. Adults patrol forest clearings and can be heard before they are seen due to their loud wing noise.
Did You Know?
The larvae dig burrows in muddy hillsides and ambush prey from the entrance, spending up to seven years underground before emerging as adults.
Black Darter
Britain s smallest dragonfly where mature males become entirely jet black, unique among European dragonflies. Females and immatures are yellow with black markings. It prefers acidic boggy habitats.
Did You Know?
Males are the only entirely black dragonfly in Europe, making them unmistakable at acidic bog pools.