Norse Grayling vs Red-faced Skimmer

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Norse Grayling Red-faced Skimmer
Scientific Name Oeneis norna Orthetrum testaceum
Order Lepidoptera Odonata
Family Nymphalidae Libellulidae
Size 44-54 mm wingspan 42-50 mm
Habitat Heathland Ponds & Lakes
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, Siberia Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Norse Grayling

A medium-sized grayish-brown butterfly with subtle orange patches and small eyespots. The wings have a semi-translucent quality that helps with camouflage on lichen-covered ground. It has an erratic, low flight.

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Did You Know?

This butterfly emerges in alternate years only, with populations synchronized so that all adults in an area appear in the same year.

Red-faced Skimmer

A robust Asian dragonfly where mature males develop a vivid red face and body. Females are brownish-yellow with subtle markings.

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Did You Know?

Its bright red face is unique among Orthetrum species, making it instantly recognizable in the field.