Common Spreadwing vs Common Whitetail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Spreadwing | Common Whitetail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lestes sponsa | Plathemis lydia |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Lestidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 35-40 mm wingspan | 60-68 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Spreadwing
A slender metallic green damselfly that characteristically holds its wings half-open at rest. It is widespread across Europe and northern Asia.
Did You Know?
Spreadwing damselflies lay their eggs into the stems of plants above the waterline, and the eggs overwinter before hatching when water levels rise in spring.
Common Whitetail
A stocky dragonfly where mature males sport a chalky white abdomen and dark wing bands. It is one of the most frequently observed dragonflies in North America.
Did You Know?
Male common whitetails are extremely aggressive and will attack and chase away dragonflies much larger than themselves from their territories.