That is a great choice. The Southern Skimmer (Orthetrum brunneum) is a widespread and common dragonfly belonging to the Skimmer family (Libellulidae). It is a highly adaptable species, recognized by the beautiful blue coloration of the mature male.
Here is a deep review of its key characteristics, biology, and ecology.
💙 Southern Skimmer (Orthetrum brunneum) Deep Review
1. Identification and Morphology
Like many skimmers, O. brunneum exhibits striking changes in coloration as it matures, with high sexual dimorphism.
| Feature | Male (Mature) | Female & Immature Male |
| Size | Medium-sized, typical wingspan of 65–75 mm; body length up to 50 mm. | Similar size. |
| Thorax | Covered in a fine pale blue pruinescence (a waxy, powdery coating). | Yellowish-brown or olive-brown, marked with dark stripes. |
| Abdomen | Entirely covered in pale blue or whitish-blue pruinescence. It is relatively slender compared to some other Orthetrum species (like the Keeled Skimmer). | Yellowish-brown, marked with black dorsal stripes. |
| Pterostigma | Often pale yellow or brownish. | Similar. |
| Key Distinguishing Mark (Legs) | The legs are mostly black, but the femora (thighs) are partially or completely yellow/brown, particularly the hind femora. This is a critical feature to distinguish it from similar blue skimmers like the Black-tailed Skimmer (O. cancellatum). | Legs are predominantly yellowish-brown. |
| Wing Veins | Veins are mostly black. | Similar. |
2. Habitat and Distribution
- Geographic Range: Wide distribution across the Palaearctic region, spanning from North Africa and Southern Europe (particularly the Mediterranean basin) eastward through the Middle East, Central Asia, and into India. It is one of the most common Orthetrum species in Southern Europe.
- Habitat Preference: A generalist species that prefers still or slow-flowing waters that are sun-exposed and often characterized by minimal vegetation or a muddy bottom.
- Primary Habitats: Ponds, ditches, slow rivers, seasonal pools, irrigation canals, and often temporary water bodies.
- Tolerance: It is highly tolerant of brackish water and disturbed habitats, thriving even in muddy tracks or puddles, provided the water lasts long enough for the larvae to develop.
3. Life Cycle and Behavior
Activity and Reproduction
- Flight Season: Typically flies from late April/May to September/October depending on the location and temperature.
- Perching Behavior: Males are highly visible, frequently perching on bare ground, stones, or exposed dry vegetation (like reeds or small shrubs) near the water’s edge. They are wary and will patrol their territory with short flights before returning to the same perch.
- Territoriality: Males are strongly territorial, chasing away intruders and rivals, and engaging in aerial battles to secure the best vantage points near the water for mating.
Mating and Larvae
- Mating: Mating occurs while perched or flying nearby, often lasting only a few moments.
- Ovi-position (Egg Laying): The female lays eggs alone, typically by striking the tip of her abdomen (ovipositing) directly onto the wet, exposed mud or silt at the water’s edge, or in very shallow water. The male often guards the female from a nearby perch during this process.
- Larval Stage (Nymph): The nymphs are burrowing, living partially or fully buried in the mud or silt at the bottom of the water body. The larval stage usually lasts one to three years, depending on water temperature and food availability. This ability to burrow protects them from drying out if their temporary habitat shrinks during the summer.
4. Ecological Role
The Southern Skimmer is an important predator. The nymphs are effective aquatic predators, feeding on mosquito larvae and other small aquatic invertebrates. The adults are swift, opportunistic aerial hunters, helping to control populations of midges, flies, and smaller insects near the water.
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