Kirby's Dropwing vs Common Clubtail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Kirby's Dropwing | Common Clubtail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Trithemis kirbyi | Gomphus vulgatissimus |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Libellulidae | Gomphidae |
| Size | 30-37 mm | 50-55 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Africa, Asia, Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Kirby's Dropwing
A bright orange-red dragonfly widespread across Africa and into southern Asia. Males have distinctive orange wing bases and red veins.
Did You Know?
It has recently colonized southern Europe via the Middle East, now breeding in Spain and Italy.
Common Clubtail
A medium-sized dragonfly with a club-shaped abdomen tip and distinctive yellow and black markings. It emerges en masse from rivers in late spring.
Did You Know?
Unlike most dragonflies, clubtails frequently perch on the ground or on flat surfaces rather than hanging from vegetation.