Red-faced Skimmer vs Kenyan Conehead Mantis

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Red-faced Skimmer Kenyan Conehead Mantis
Scientific Name Orthetrum testaceum Empusa capensis
Order Odonata Mantodea
Family Libellulidae Empusidae
Size 42-50 mm 45-65 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Grasslands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Asia South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Red-faced Skimmer

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

💡

Did You Know?

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

Kenyan Conehead Mantis

A southern and eastern African conehead mantis found in dry bushveld and savanna. It has a prominent head cone and feathered male antennae.

💡

Did You Know?

Despite its name suggesting Cape origin, it ranges widely across eastern and southern Africa.