Red and Blue Damselfly vs Black Saddlebags

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Red and Blue Damselfly Black Saddlebags
Scientific Name Xanthagrion erythroneurum Tramea lacerata
Order Odonata Odonata
Family Coenagrionidae Libellulidae
Size Body 2.5-3 cm; wingspan 3-4 cm 47-55 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions Australia North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Red and Blue Damselfly

A small damselfly where males display striking red and blue coloring. It is one of the most colorful damselflies in Australia.

💡

Did You Know?

Males are most active in late afternoon, often forming mating swarms over water at dusk.

Black Saddlebags

A large migratory dragonfly with conspicuous black patches at the base of its hindwings. It flies for extended periods and is often seen in feeding swarms.

💡

Did You Know?

The dark hindwing patches look like saddlebags, giving this strong migrant its memorable name.