Mascarene Spreadwing vs Sparkling Jewelwing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mascarene Spreadwing Sparkling Jewelwing
Scientific Name Lestes auripennis Calopteryx xanthostoma
Order Odonata Odonata
Family Lestidae Calopterygidae
Size 3.5-4.5 cm 45-50 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Rivers & Streams
Diet Herbivores Omnivores
Regions Mauritius, Reunion Europe, Africa
Conservation Endangered Least Concern

Mascarene Spreadwing

A rare damselfly endemic to Mauritius and Reunion in the Mascarene Islands. It breeds in slow-flowing streams with overhanging vegetation.

💡

Did You Know?

Most of Mauritius's original wetland habitat has been converted to sugar cane fields.

Sparkling Jewelwing

A southwestern European demoiselle closely related to the Banded Demoiselle. Males have broad dark wing bands and a distinctive yellow underside to the mouth.

💡

Did You Know?

It can be distinguished from the Banded Demoiselle by the yellow underside of its lower lip.