Twin-spotted Spiketail vs Black Saddlebags
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Twin-spotted Spiketail | Black Saddlebags |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cordulegaster maculata | Tramea lacerata |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Cordulegastridae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 68-78 mm | 47-55 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Twin-spotted Spiketail
A large, dark brown spiketail with paired yellow spots on each abdominal segment. It is the most common spiketail in eastern North America.
Did You Know?
Its larvae lie partially buried in stream-bottom leaf litter and ambush passing prey.
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.