Southern Skimmer vs Eupeodes Hoverfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Southern Skimmer Eupeodes Hoverfly
Scientific Name Orthetrum brunneum Eupeodes corollae
Order Odonata Diptera
Family Libellulidae Syrphidae
Size 40-47mm 8-12 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Farmland
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Europe, Asia, Africa Europe, Asia, North Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Southern Skimmer

A robust skimmer dragonfly where males develop a pale powder-blue pruinescence. Females are brown with a pale lateral stripe. It favors warm running water habitats.

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Did You Know?

It prefers flowing water over still ponds, which is unusual among skimmer dragonflies.

Eupeodes Hoverfly

A common small hoverfly with variable yellow comma-shaped markings on the abdomen. It is a migratory species and important aphid predator.

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Did You Know?

It migrates in huge numbers from southern Europe northward each spring alongside painted lady butterflies.