About Scarlet Skimmer
A medium-sized dragonfly where males are entirely vivid scarlet red, including the veins of the wings. It is one of the most recognizable dragonflies in the Old World.
Did You Know?
The scarlet skimmer has been expanding rapidly into northern Europe, establishing breeding populations in countries where it was previously unknown.
How to Identify Scarlet Skimmer
Scarlet Skimmer (Crocothemis erythraea) belongs to the order Odonata, family Libellulidae. Adults typically measure 52-60 mm wingspan.
Scarlet Skimmer Habitat
Scarlet Skimmer is found in ponds & lakes habitats, particularly across Europe, Africa, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Scarlet Skimmer Diet and Feeding
Scarlet 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 Scarlet Skimmer Found?
Scarlet Skimmer can be found in Europe, Africa, Asia, where it inhabits ponds & lakes environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Scarlet Skimmer can be found
Is Scarlet Skimmer Dangerous?
Scarlet 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.
Scarlet Skimmer Role in Nature
Scarlet 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
Frequently Asked Questions About Scarlet Skimmer
What does Scarlet Skimmer look like?
The Scarlet Skimmer typically measures 52-60 mm wingspan.
Where is Scarlet Skimmer found?
The Scarlet Skimmer is found in Europe, Africa, Asia and typically inhabits ponds & lakes environments.
What does Scarlet Skimmer eat?
The Scarlet Skimmer is a predator that hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates.
Is Scarlet Skimmer dangerous to humans?
The Scarlet Skimmer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Scarlet Skimmer?
The scarlet skimmer has been expanding rapidly into northern Europe, establishing breeding populations in countries where it was previously unknown.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Scarlet Skimmer (Crocothemis erythraea). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/scarlet-skimmer
MLA:
"Scarlet Skimmer." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/scarlet-skimmer.