Southern Hawker vs Yellow-winged Darter

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Southern Hawker Yellow-winged Darter
Scientific Name Aeshna cyanea Sympetrum flaveolum
Order Odonata Odonata
Family Aeshnidae Libellulidae
Size 70-76 mm wingspan 32-37 mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Wetlands
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions Europe Europe, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Southern Hawker

A large, inquisitive dragonfly with apple-green and blue markings on a dark body. It is known for its curiosity and often approaches and hovers near humans.

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Did You Know?

Southern hawkers are among the most curious dragonflies and will frequently investigate humans, hovering at eye level as if studying them.

Yellow-winged Darter

A medium-sized darter with extensive saffron-yellow patches at the base of all four wings. Males are red-bodied while females are yellowish.

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Did You Know?

It breeds in temporary flood meadows and is a strong migrant that appears in large numbers in good years.