Elfin Skimmer (Nannothemis bella) - 20240604-07
Nannothemis is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae. It is monotypic, being represented by the single species, Nannothemis bella, commonly known as the elfin skimmer. The elfin skimmer is native to the eastern United States and Canada, and is the smallest dragonfly in North America. Males are powdery blue, while females are black and yellow, resembling a wasp. (Wikipedia)
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I didn't even know that this tiny dragonfly existed until our guide pointed it out (less than an inch long). My first thought had been a hoverfly or a wasp, it was just so small. As you can see, though, it is a true dragonfly with beautiful markings. The males appear rather drab in comparison to the pretty female, being a rather pale powdery blue.
Murphy's Point Provincial Park, Lanark, Ontario. June 2024.
Eastern Ontario Birding.
Elfin Skimmer (Nannothemis bella) - 20240604-07
Nannothemis is a genus of dragonflies in the family Libellulidae. It is monotypic, being represented by the single species, Nannothemis bella, commonly known as the elfin skimmer. The elfin skimmer is native to the eastern United States and Canada, and is the smallest dragonfly in North America. Males are powdery blue, while females are black and yellow, resembling a wasp. (Wikipedia)
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I didn't even know that this tiny dragonfly existed until our guide pointed it out (less than an inch long). My first thought had been a hoverfly or a wasp, it was just so small. As you can see, though, it is a true dragonfly with beautiful markings. The males appear rather drab in comparison to the pretty female, being a rather pale powdery blue.
Murphy's Point Provincial Park, Lanark, Ontario. June 2024.
Eastern Ontario Birding.