Common Darter vs Delta-spotted Spiketail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Darter | Delta-spotted Spiketail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sympetrum striolatum | Cordulegaster diastatops |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Libellulidae | Cordulegastridae |
| Size | 35-44 mm body length | 70-78 mm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Forests |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe, Northern Europe | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Darter
Europe's most abundant dragonfly, with mature males turning bright orange-red. It is often the last dragonfly flying in autumn, sometimes into November.
Did You Know?
Mating pairs lay eggs by repeatedly dipping the female's abdomen into the water while flying in tandem.
Delta-spotted Spiketail
A large spiketail of eastern North America with distinctive triangular yellow spots along its dark abdomen. It patrols forest streams with a slow, deliberate flight.
Did You Know?
The triangular or delta-shaped abdominal spots give this impressive spiketail its common name.