New Zealand Blue Damselfly vs Forest Demoiselle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Blue Damselfly | Forest Demoiselle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Austrolestes colensonis | Calopteryx syriaca |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Lestidae | Calopterygidae |
| Size | 35-42 mm | 44-50 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Asia, Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Vulnerable |
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.
Forest Demoiselle
A Near Eastern demoiselle found along streams in the Levant region. Males have dark wings with blue-green metallic body coloring.
Did You Know?
It is restricted to a small number of streams in the Levant, making it one of the rarest Calopteryx species.