πŸͺ» Dragonflies & Damselflies

Keeled Skimmer

Orthetrum coerulescens

About Keeled Skimmer

A slender dragonfly where mature males develop a powder-blue abdomen. Females and immature males are yellowish-brown. It flies low over shallow boggy streams and seepages.

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Did You Know?

It is an indicator species for high-quality wet heathland, and its presence suggests good habitat condition.

How to Identify Keeled Skimmer

Keeled Skimmer (Orthetrum coerulescens) belongs to the order Odonata, family Libellulidae. Adults typically measure 36-45mm.

Keeled Skimmer Habitat

Keeled Skimmer is found in rivers & streams habitats, particularly across Europe, Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Keeled Skimmer Diet and Feeding

Keeled Skimmer is a predatory species that actively hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates. As a predator, it helps control populations of pest species and maintains ecological balance.

Where Is Keeled Skimmer Found?

Keeled Skimmer can be found in Europe, Africa, where it inhabits rivers & streams environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Keeled Skimmer can be found

Is Keeled Skimmer Dangerous?

Keeled Skimmer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.

Keeled Skimmer Role in Nature

Keeled Skimmer serves as a natural predator, helping to control populations of other insects. Predatory insects are valuable in both natural ecosystems and agriculture, where they reduce the numbers of pest species without the need for chemical pesticides.

Seasonal Activity

Jan
Feb
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Dec
Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Keeled Skimmer

What does Keeled Skimmer look like?

The Keeled Skimmer typically measures 36-45mm.

Where is Keeled Skimmer found?

The Keeled Skimmer is found in Europe, Africa and typically inhabits rivers & streams environments.

What does Keeled Skimmer eat?

The Keeled Skimmer is a predator that hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates.

Is Keeled Skimmer dangerous to humans?

The Keeled Skimmer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.

What is an interesting fact about Keeled Skimmer?

It is an indicator species for high-quality wet heathland, and its presence suggests good habitat condition.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Keeled Skimmer (Orthetrum coerulescens). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/keeled-skimmer

MLA:
"Keeled Skimmer." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/keeled-skimmer.