Violet Dropwing vs Mascarene Spreadwing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Violet Dropwing | Mascarene Spreadwing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Trithemis annulata | Lestes auripennis |
| Order | Odonata | Odonata |
| Family | Libellulidae | Lestidae |
| Size | 32-38 mm | 3.5-4.5 cm |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Africa, Europe, Asia | Mauritius, Reunion |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Endangered |
Violet Dropwing
A stunning dragonfly where mature males turn deep violet-purple with red wing veins. It is expanding its range northward into southern Europe.
Did You Know?
It has colonized southern Europe from Africa and continues to spread north as temperatures warm.
Mascarene Spreadwing
A rare damselfly endemic to Mauritius and Reunion in the Mascarene Islands. It breeds in slow-flowing streams with overhanging vegetation.
Did You Know?
Most of Mauritius's original wetland habitat has been converted to sugar cane fields.