Lance-tipped Darner vs Tau Emerald

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Lance-tipped Darner Tau Emerald
Scientific Name Aeshna constricta Hemicordulia tau
Order Odonata Odonata
Family Aeshnidae Corduliidae
Size 65-74 mm 55-60mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Omnivores Predators
Regions North America Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Lance-tipped Darner

A large brown darner with blue spots common in eastern North America. It is a late-season flier, active well into autumn.

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Did You Know?

Its name refers to the lance-shaped cerci (tail appendages) used by males to grasp females during mating.

Tau Emerald

A metallic emerald-green dragonfly with bright green eyes and a distinctive T-shaped yellow marking on the abdomen. It is one of the most common dragonflies in Australia. Males patrol relentlessly.

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Did You Know?

The yellow tau-shaped mark on its abdomen gives it both its scientific and common name.