Redcoat Damselfly

About Redcoat Damselfly

A small endemic damselfly found throughout New Zealand, named for the bright red body of the male. It is one of the most abundant odonates in New Zealand and frequents still or slow-moving water bodies. Females are typically greenish-brown.

How to Identify Redcoat Damselfly

Redcoat Damselfly (Xanthocnemis zealandica) belongs to the order Odonata, family Coenagrionidae. Adults typically measure 28-36 mm.

Redcoat Damselfly Habitat

Redcoat Damselfly is found in ponds & lakes habitats, particularly across Oceania (New Zealand). This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Redcoat Damselfly Diet and Feeding

Redcoat Damselfly has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter. This dietary flexibility allows it to exploit a wide range of food sources in its environment.

Where Is Redcoat Damselfly Found?

Redcoat Damselfly can be found in Oceania (New Zealand), where it inhabits ponds & lakes environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Is Redcoat Damselfly Dangerous?

Redcoat Damselfly 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.

Redcoat Damselfly Role in Nature

Redcoat Damselfly plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Redcoat Damselfly are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.

Seasonal Activity