Southern Skimmer vs Lancet Clubtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Southern Skimmer Lancet Clubtail
Scientific Name Orthetrum brunneum Phanogomphus exilis
Order Odonata Odonata
Family Libellulidae Gomphidae
Size 40-47mm 38-45 mm
Habitat Rivers & Streams Forests
Diet Predators Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia, Africa North America
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.

Lancet Clubtail

A small, slender clubtail dragonfly of eastern North America with greenish-yellow markings. It frequents small streams and creeks in forested areas.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the smallest clubtails in North America, easily overlooked along woodland streams.