New Zealand Blue Damselfly vs Common Darter
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Blue Damselfly | Common Darter |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Austrolestes colensonis | Sympetrum striolatum |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Lestidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 35-42 mm | 35-44 mm body length |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Western Europe, Central Europe, Southern Europe, Northern Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
New Zealand Blue Damselfly
New Zealand's most common damselfly, with striking blue and black colouration in males. It is found near ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams throughout the country. This species is remarkably cold-tolerant for a damselfly.
Did You Know?
This damselfly can remain active in temperatures as low as 8 degrees Celsius, unusual for an odonate and an adaptation to New Zealand's cool climate.
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.