Distributions/Gomphidae/Odonata/Paragomphus

Corkscrew Hooktail (Paragomphus elpidius)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Wil Leurs.

Find the Corkscrew Hooktail in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Gomphidae

Identification

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius – Male
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Medium-large size

Length up to 50mm; Wingspan reaches 59mm.

The Corkscrew Hooktail is an attractive, bright green and brown species. The males possess well-developed foliations on the abdomen and strongly hooked claspers.

It is most similar to Paragomphus genei (Common Hooktail). The Corkscrew Hooktail has a brighter green thorax with more distinct brown markings. In addition, the foliations on the lower abdomen of P. elpidius are distinctly larger. The superior appendages are more robust and are strongly hooked. Additionally, the two species differ in the colour of the pterostigmas. Paragomphus elpidius has all dark pterostigmas. Those of Paragomphus genei are pale with dark borders.

Females resemble males but are duller and lack the abdominal foliations and hooked claspers of the males

Click here for more details on identification of the Corkscrew Hooktail.

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius – Female
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Habitat

The Corkscrew Hooktail inhabits warm savanna regions, especially in hot, dry valleys. It prefers large, fast-flowing rivers, often where there are wide gravel banks and dense fringing woodland. The Corkscrew Hooktail does not usually frequent still water habitats.

Typical habitat – Usutu River, Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Behaviour

The Corkscrew Hooktail is a shy and alert species that can be difficult to approach. It usually perches low down on rocks, sticks, and plant stems close to the water. During the heat of the day, they perch among trees and bushes, often above the riverbank. This species hunts from a perch. It makes swift flights to intercept prey, quickly returning to settle.

The Corkscrew Hooktail is on the wing from October to June.

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius – Male
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Corkscrew Hooktail is generally localised and uncommon in South Africa. However, it can be fairly common at some sites.

It is listed as of Least Concern in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Corkscrew Hooktail is fairly sensitive to habitat degradation and prefers undisturbed sites.

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius – Immature male
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

Paragomphus elpidius is found in Eastern and Southern Africa. It occurs from Uganda and Kenya in the north down to South Africa. In South Africa, the Corkscrew Hooktail is restricted to the hotter north and east.

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius – Female
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Corkscrew Hooktail in the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Corkscrew Hooktail in the OdonataMAP database as of December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater. We will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon. Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius – Male
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Phenology

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius – Male
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Further Resources

The use of photographs by Wil Leurs is acknowledged. All other photographs by Ryan Tippett.

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius (Ris, 1921)

Other common names: Slingerhakiestert (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/corkscrew-hooktail-paragomphus-elpidius/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Corkscrew Hooktail Paragomphus elpidius – Male
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Common Hooktail (Paragomphus genei)
Distributions/Libellulidae/Odonata/Palpopleura

Lucia Widow (Palpopleura lucia)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Diana Russell.

Find this species in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Libellulidae

Identification

Lucia Widow Palpopleura lucia – Male
Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Small size

Length reaches 32mm; Wingspan attains 53mm.

Male Lucia Widows are easily recognisable. Their extensively black wings and striking blue-white abdomens are distinctive. Most similar to Palpopleura portia, but that species has a pale pruinose blue, rather than black upper thorax. It also shows far less black in the wings.

Lucia Widow Palpopleura lucia – Female
Near Kosi Bay, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Females of the two species are very similar and often problematic to identify in the field. Female Lucia Widows generally show more black in the wings. They also usually have a smoky ‘shadow’ area in the hind wings surrounding the black. Females of both species variations in wing patterning and are best identified by their association with the males.

Click here for more details on identification.

Lucia Widow Palpopleura lucia – Male
Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Habitat

Palpopleura lucia has a wide habitat tolerance. It prefers the still reaches of natural and man-made waterbodies like lakes, pans, dams, floodplains, marshes, and ponds. The Lucia Widow also occupies the quiet backwaters, pools, and slow-moving sections of rivers and streams. Favours well-vegetated habitats with abundant reeds, sedges, grass, etc. The Lucia Widow is mostly restricted to hot, humid savanna regions. It is found up to around 1400m above sea level in Gauteng but occurs mainly at lower altitudes in KwaZulu-Natal.

Habitat – Mdloti River, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Alex Briggs

Behaviour

The Lucia Widow is a conspicuous species. Males, with their striking colours, sit prominently on exposed perches over the water and are very eye-catching. Females occur in the same areas as the males but are far less noticeable. The Lucia Widow hunts from a perch and the flight is fast and fluttering.

The Lucia Widow is on the wing from October to May, but flies year-round in many places.

Lucia Widow Palpopleura lucia – Male
Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Lucia Widow is Common to very common and widespread. It is listed as of Least Concern in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This is an adaptable species that readily makes use of man-made habitats.

Lucia Widow Palpopleura lucia – Female
Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

Palpopleura lucia is widespread over most of Sub-Saharan Africa. It is excluded only from the driest regions of NE Africa and the dry west and Winter-rainfall parts of Southern Africa.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Lucia Widow in the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Lucia Widow in the OdonataMAP database as at December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Further Resources

The use of photographs by Alex Briggs and Dianna Russel is acknowledged.

Lucia Widow Palpopleura lucia (Drury, 1773)

Other common names: Black-winged Widow (Alt. English); Lucia-weetjie (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Lucia Widow Palpopleura lucia. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/lucia-widow-palpopleura-lucia/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Lucia Widow Palpopleura lucia – Male
Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Portia Widow (Palpopleura portia)
Distributions/Libellulidae/Odonata/Parazyxomma

Banded Duskdarter (Parazyxomma flavicans)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Rob Dickinson.

Find the Banded Duskdarter in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Libellulidae

Identification

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans – Male
Kosi Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Small size

Length attains 40mm; Wingspan up to 68mm.

The Banded Duskdarter is most similar to the female and immature Southern Banded Groundling (Brachythemis leucosticta). Parazyxomma flavicans differs by having intricately patterned greenish-brown eyes and paler brown, washed out wing bands. In addition, the two species demonstrate very different behaviour and habitat requirements.

Click here for more details on identification of the Banded Duskdarter.

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans – Female
Linyanti, Botswana
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Habitat

The Banded Duskdarter inhabits forested areas, particularly riverine forest and swamp forests surrounding rivers and lakes. It is restricted to swamp forests in South Africa, but occurs in riverine forests further north, for example in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. The Banded Duskdarter favours deeply shaded habitats, often with ferns and similar undergrowth.

Habitat – Dense swamp forest
Kosi Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Behaviour

The Banded Duskdarter is a crepuscular, shade loving species that spends much of its time hidden in dense undergrowth. It usually perches fairly high up on bare twigs in full shade. The Banded Duskdarter becomes active at dusk when it hunts in clearings and along river fringes. This species flies from September to January in South Africa.

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans – Male
Kosi Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Banded Duskdarter is uncommon and very localised in South Africa. It is listed locally as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Globally, it is considered of Least Concern. The Banded Duskdarter is not recorded from man-made habitats.

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans – Male
Linyanti, Botswana
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

Parazyxomma flavicans is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa. It occurs across West and Central Africa to Uganda and Rwanda in East Africa. The range extends down to Zambia, northern Namibia and Botswana. The population in north-eastern South Africa and adjacent Southern Mozambique appears to be isolated from other populations.

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans – Female
Linyanti, Botswana
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Banded Duskdarter in the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Banded Duskdarter in the OdonataMAP database as of December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans – Male
Okavango Delta, Botswana
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans – Male
Kosi Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Further Resources

The use of photographs by Rob Dickinson is acknowledged. Other photographs by Ryan Tippett.

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans (Martin, 1908)

Other common names: Twilight Groundling (Alt. English); Gebande Skemerwerper (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/25/southern-banded-groundling-brachythemis-leucosticta/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Banded Duskdarter Parazyxomma flavicans – Male
Linyanti, Botswana
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Southern Banded Groundling (Brachythemis leucosticta)
Distributions/Libellulidae/Odonata/Tholymis

Twister (Tholymis tillarga)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by John Wilkinson.

Find the Twister in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Libellulidae

Identification

Twister Tholymis tillarga – Male
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Medium-large size

Length up to 48mm; Wingspan attains 79mm.

Adult male Twisters are distinctive and unmistakable. The thorax and abdomen are coral-red overall, without any obvious markings. The brown and white blotches in each hindwing are diagnostic.

Females are less distinctive but are identifiable by the feint brown panels in the hind wings, plain colouration and habits. They most resemble an old or worn Pantala flavescens (Wandering Glider). Female Twisters can be told apart by the feint brown markings in the hindwings and the thin dark lines at each segment on the abdomen.

Click here for more details on identification.

Twister Tholymis tillarga – Female
Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Habitat

The Twister is mostly found in hot and humid, well-wooded forest and savanna areas. It breeds at vegetated still-water habitats like pans, pools, marshes, dams, and the backwaters of slow-moving rivers.

Habitat – Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Behaviour

The Twister is a crepuscular species and is most active at dawn and dusk. They may also emerge to hunt during humid, muggy weather preceding rain and thunderstorms. The Twister flies low and fast over water bodies or clearings while hunting small aerial insects.

It rests up in the shade of trees and bushes during the day, where it may be found some distance from water. The Twister hangs vertically when perched, usually on an exposed twig in the undergrowth.

Twister Tholymis tillarga – Female
Linyanti, Botswana
Photo by Ryan Tippett

The female deposits her eggs in flight, on slightly submerged plant stems. The name ‘Twister’ originates from the female’s habit of twisting at intervals between egg-laying dips. The male hovers nearby to protect his mate from being intercepted by rival males. In South Africa, the Twister is on the wing from December to May.

A female Twister Tholymis tillarga laying eggs.
Hluhluwe district, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett
A male Twister Tholymis tillarga guarding his mate during egg-laying.
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Twister is generally scarce and localised in South Africa. It is listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as of Least Concern due to its wide distribution. It can be abundant in some regions such as the Okavango delta in Botswana. The Twister is a fairly adaptable species and does make use of suitable man-made habitats for breeding.

Twister Tholymis tillarga – Female
Kosi Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

The Twister is a widespread, tropical species that is found across sub-Saharan Africa to tropical Asia and Australia. It also occurs on many islands in the Indian and Pacific oceans. In Africa Tholymis tillarga is resident in the tropics and sub-tropics, including north-eastern South Africa. The Twister migrates seasonally into the northern and southern parts of its African range.

As a strong-flying migratory species, it has the potential to erratically appear almost anywhere within the summer-rainfall zone, including the drier central parts of South Africa.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for the Tholymis tillarga in South
Africa. Taken from the the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for the Tholymis tillarga in South
Africa. Taken from the the OdonataMAP database as of December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Twister Tholymis tillarga – Male
False Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Further Resources

The use of photographs by John Wilkinson is acknowledged. All other photographs by Ryan Tippett.

Twister Tholymis tillarga (Fabricius, 1798)

Other common names: Coral-tailed Cloudwing, Old World Twister, Evening Skimmer, Crepuscular Darter (Alt. English); Vlegtertjie (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Twister Tholymis tillarga. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/twister-tholymis-tillarga/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Twister Tholymis tillarga – Male
Okavango Delta, Botswana
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens)
Distributions/Libellulidae/Odonata/Tramea

Keyhole Glider (Tramea basilaris)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Gerhard Diedericks.

Find the Keyhole Glider in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Libellulidae

Identification

Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris – Male
Mpempe Pan, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Medium sized

Length up to 50mm; Wingspan attains 93mm.

The Keyhole Glider most resembles Tramea limbata (Ferruginous Glider). That species is similar in both size and shape but has narrower, darker markings at the base of the hind wings and a dark brown face. Tramea basilaris has a red face with a variable amount of yellow.

Females are similar to males but are yellowish-brown in colouration.

Click here for more details on identification of the Keyhole Glider.

Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris – Female
Hluhluwe district, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Habitat

The Keyhole Glider inhabits a wide range of freshwater environments, but favours the still, ephemeral waters of pans, pools, and marshes. It is regularly found away from water especially in open, grassy areas with scattered bushes and trees.

Habitat – Mkuze Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Behaviour

The Keyhole Glider is more often seen in flight than it is perched. Tramea basilaris has a smooth, gliding flight as it patrols back and forth along an irregular route. It sometimes hovers for a few seconds before continuing on its way. The Keyhole Glider perches on top of bushes, trees, and reeds. It is often found singly but is likely to be gregarious at favourable sites. The Keyhole Glider is a highly nomadic species that moves about in response to rainfall.

The Keyhole Glider is active from November to May.

Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris – Pair
Ehlatini Bush Camp, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Keyhole Glider is common but highly nomadic and erratic in its occurence. It may be abundant at certain sites. The Keyhole Glider is listed as of Least Concern in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris – Female
Hluhluwe district, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

Tramea basilaris is widespread throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. It is liable to be encountered almost anywhere but is most common in the savanna regions. It’s range extends beyond Africa into parts of the Middle East and Asia. The Keyhole Glider also occurs on Madagascar and many of the Indian Ocean Islands.

In South Africa it is mostly found in the north and east but vagrants can turn up almost anywhere.

Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris – Male
Kosi Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Keyhole Glider in the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Keyhole Glider in the OdonataMAP database as of December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris – Male
Charters Creek, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Further Resources

The use of photographs by Gerhard Diedericks is acknowledged. All other photographs by Ryan Tippett.

Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris (Palisot de Beauvois, 1807)

Other common names: Loerswewer (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/keyhole-glider-tramea-basilaris/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Keyhole Glider Tramea basilaris – Male
Nibela Peninsular, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Ferruginous Glider (Tramea limbata)
Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens)
Distributions/Libellulidae/Odonata/Tramea

Ferruginous Glider (Tramea limbata)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Georg Jacobs.

Find the Ferruginous Glider in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Libellulidae

Identification

Ferruginous Glider Tramea limbata – Male
Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga
Photo by Gerhard Diedericks

Medium sized

Length up to 52mm; Wingspan up to 94mm.

The Ferruginous Glider most resembles Tramea basilaris (Keyhole Glider). That species is similar in both size and shape but has more extensive and differently shaped markings at the base of the hind wings. Tramea limbata has a deep red rather than orange-red abdomen and a brown face and eyes. Tramea basilaris has a red face with variable amounts of yellow and dark red eyes.

Females closely resemble the males but have broader abdomens and their dark wing panels are rounder and slightly wider.

Click here for more details on identification of the Ferruginous Glider.

Habitat

The favoured breeding habitat of the Ferruginous Glider is open, shallow water bodies such as pans, lakes, dams, and marshes. The Ferruginous Glider prefers ephemeral wetlands. Non-breeding adults are regularly found in a variety of other habitats away from water.

Habitat – Near Hluhluwe KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Behaviour

The Ferruginous Glider is a powerful, smooth flyer that spends much of its time on the wing. It mostly hunts in bush country away from the water. The Ferruginous Glider periodically perches on the tops of bushes, reeds, or trees. It is often gregarious and both sexes occur in the same vicinity. Tramea limbata is nomadic with erratic movements linked to rainfall.

The Ferruginous Glider is on the wing from November to May

Ferruginous Glider Tramea limbata
Hluhluwe district, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Ferruginous Glider is common and is listed as of Least Concern in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This is a hardy and adaptable species that readily utilises temporary, degraded, and man-made water bodies.

Ferruginous Glider Tramea limbata – Male
Mpempe Pan, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

Tramea limbata has a very wide distribution. It is erratically distributed throughout sub-Saharan Africa and is also found on Madagascar and many of the Indian Ocean islands. Populations also occur in parts of the Middle East and Western Asia.

In South Africa, the Ferruginous Glider is found primarily in the north, east and south of the country. It largely avoids the more arid central interior, although vagrants may appear almost anywhere. It is most abundant in KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. The Ferruginous Glider also occurs widely in Mpumalanga, Gauteng, North-West, and Limpopo.

Ferruginous Glider Tramea limbata – Male
Montagu, Western Cape
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Ferruginous Glider in the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Ferruginous Glider in the OdonataMAP database as of December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Ferruginous Glider Tramea limbata – Male
Ehlatini Bush Camp, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Further Resources

The use of photographs by Georg Jacobs and Gerhard Diedericks is acknowledged. All other photographs by Ryan Tippett.

Ferruginous Glider Tramea limbata (Desjardins, 1832)

Other common names: Voyaging Glider (Alternative English Name); Enkelbandswewer (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Ferruginous Glider Tramea limbata. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/ferruginous-glider-tramea-limbata/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Ferruginous Glider Tramea limbata
Paardenberg, Western Cape
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Keyhole Glider (Tramea basilaris)
Wandering Glider (Pantala flavescens)
Distributions/Libellulidae/Odonata/Trithemis

Red-veined Dropwing (Trithemis arteriosa)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Jaco Botes.

Find this species in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Libellulidae

Identification

Red-veined Dropwing Trithemis arteriosa – Male
Mkuze River, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Small size

Length up to 38mm; Wingspan reaches 60mm.

Male Red-veined Dropwings are readily identified in the field but may be confused with other small red or purplish dragonflies. It is most similar to the Russet Dropwing (Trithemis pluvialis) but that species is orange-red in colouration as opposed to bright red with a purple wash on the thorax.

Females are similar in appearance to several other small dragonfly females. However, they are easily identified by the distinctive black patterning on the abdomen.

Click here for more details on identification.

Red-veined Dropwing Trithemis arteriosa – Female
Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Habitat

The Red-veined Dropwing inhabits a wide range of natural and man-made water bodies, including rivers, streams, lakes, pans, dams, concrete reservoirs, swimming pools and animal drinking troughs. They prefer, but are not limited to, vegetated habitats and can be found at both still and running water. The Red-veined Dropwing also makes use of temporary water bodies and is present at a wide range of altitudes.

Habitat – Ngonweni, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Alex Briggs

Behaviour

Males are conspicuous at most water bodies, as they sit prominently on exposed perches over or near the water. They will often also perch on the ground. The Red-veined Dropwing is a very active and restless species. It hunts from a perch and frequently returns to the same site after each foray to catch prey or to chase off rivals. Males and females usually both occur in the same vicinity.

Red-veined Dropwings are on the wing year round in most areas. However, they are found in lower numbers during the cooler months. This species is most numerous from October to January.

Red-veined Dropwing Trithemis arteriosa – Male
Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Red-veined Dropwing is very common and is probably the most frequently encountered dragonfly species in the region. It is listed as of Least Concern in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Trithemis arteriosa is a very adaptable species that readily makes use of degraded and man-made habitats.

Red-veined Dropwing Trithemis arteriosa – Male
Kuleni Game Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

The Red-veined Dropwing is very widespread and is found virtually throughout Africa, including some of the driest regions. It also occurs around the Mediterranean Sea and in parts of the Middle East. The Red-veined Dropwing is found throughout southern Africa.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Red-veined Dropwing in the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Red-veined Dropwing in the OdonataMAP database as of December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Red-veined Dropwing Trithemis arteriosa – Male
Amakhosi Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Further Resources

The use of photographs by Alex Briggs and Jaco Botes is acknowledged. All other photographs by Ryan Tippett.

Red-veined Dropwing Trithemis arteriosa (Burmeister, 1839)

Other common names: Rooinerfie (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Red-veined Dropwing Trithemis arteriosa. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/red-veined-dropwing-trithemis-arteriosa/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Red-veined Dropwing Trithemis arteriosa – Male
Carnarvon district, Northern Cape
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Russet Dropwing (Trithemis pluvialis)
Distributions/Libellulidae/Odonata/Trithemis

Halfshade Dropwing (Trithemis aconita)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Desire Darling.

Find the Halfshade Dropwing in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Libellulidae

Identification

Halfshade Dropwing Trithemis aconita – Male
Mkuze River, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Small size

Length up to 41mm; Wingspan attains 67mm.

The overall appearance of the Halfshade Dropwing is of a small, slender, and entirely dark blue species. It is one of a handful of small, dark blue species in the region. Trithemis aconita can be told apart from other similar species by its noticeably slender abdomen and its shady riverine habitat.

Males most resemble the Silhouette Dropwing (Trithemis hecate). The Halfshade Dropwing can be differentiated by its thin black abdomen with yellow streaks. This abdomen pattern seldom becomes obscured with pruinosity, unlike the Silhouette Dropwing. Young male Silhouette Dropwings (Trithemis hecate), also have thin abdomens with yellow streaks. However, this pattern becomes obscured with dark blue pruinosity once mature. The two species also differ markedly in their behaviour and habitat choices.

Females are easily confused with other Trithemis species. They are best identified by their association with the males.

Halfshade Dropwing Trithemis aconita – Immature Male
Kosi Bay, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Click here for more details on identification of the Halfshade Dropwing.

Habitat

The Halfshade Dropwing frequents shaded rivers and streams in riverine, swamp, and coastal forests, as well as dense woodland. It favours areas with leafy trees overhanging the river, often where there is running water with rocks or shaded pools.

Typical habitat – Nwanedi, Limpopo
Photo by John Wilkinson

Behaviour

The Halfshade Dropwing is a shade loving species, often perching on shaded twigs over the water. It also sits in dappled light and sunspots near the water but is seldom found far from shade. The Halfshade Dropwing is shy and weary and flies into the treetops at the slightest sign of disturbance. It usually perches under the overhanging canopy of trees, often fairly high up but sometimes also low down, close to the water on rocks and exposed tree roots.

The Halfshade Dropwing flies from November to April.

Halfshade Dropwing Trithemis aconita – Male
Mkuze River, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Halfshade Dropwing is uncommon and very localised in South Africa. It is listed as of Least Concern in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This species is intolerant of damage to its riverine home and is only found in high-quality habitats.

Halfshade Dropwing Trithemis aconita – Male
Amakhosi Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

The Halfshade Dropwing is erratically distributed throughout most of sub-Saharan Africa. It is largely absent from the dry arid parts of Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. Its South African range is confined to low altitudes along the perennial savanna rivers of the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces and the forested rivers of coastal Kwa-Zulu-Natal.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Halfshade Dropwing in the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Halfshade Dropwing in the OdonataMAP database as at December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Halfshade Dropwing Trithemis aconita – Male
Mkuze River, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Further Resources

The use of photographs by John Wilkinson, and Sharon Stanton is acknowledged.

Halfshade Dropwing Trithemis aconita (Lieftinck, 1969)

Other common names: Monk’s Hood Dropwing (Alt. English); Skaduvalvlerkie (Afrikaans).

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Halfshade Dropwing Trithemis aconita. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/halfshade-dropwing-trithemis-aconita/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Halfshade Dropwing Trithemis aconita – Male
Mkuze River, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Silhouette Dropwing (Trithemis hecate)
Coenagrionidae/Distributions/Odonata/Proischnura

Mauve Bluet (Proischnura polychromatica)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Gregg Darling.

Find the Mauve Bluet in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Coenagrionidae

Identification

Very small

Length up to 23mm; Wingspan reaches 34mm.

The adult male is highly distinctive, being bright mauve/violet and black. The black parts have a bronze-green gloss.

The female is mainly pale brown with darker markings.

Male Mauve Bluets are most likely to be mistaken for the Male Spesbona (Spesbona angusta). Both show violet and black colouration, but the Spesbona is larger and more robust. The head of the Spesbona is violet with black postocular markings, while the head of the Mauve Bluet is black with purple postocular markings.

Female Mauve Bluets could easily be mistaken for those of the Swamp Bluet (Africallagma glaucum) and are best identified by their association with the males.

Click here for more details on identification.

Mauve Bluet Proischnura polychromatica – Male
Theewaterskloof, Western Cape
Photo by Felicity Grundlingh

Habitat

The preferred habitat of the Mauve Bluet is transient pools in stream beds with floating vegetation and dense reeds and sedges.

Behaviour

The Mauve Bluet is a rather inconspicuous species that sits low down among dense waterside vegetation. It is usually only spotted once it flits away after being disturbed.

The Mauve Bluet is most active from October to December (see Phenology below).

Status and Conservation

The Mauve Bluet is rare and highly localised. It’s habitat is threatened by the encroachment of cattle and the loss of suitable habitat. For these reasons, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed it as endangered.

Distribution

The Mauve Bluet is endemic to a few small, seemingly isolated areas of the Western Cape Province in South Africa. However, due to its cryptic behaviour and small size, the Mauve Bluet is probably under-recorded and is likely to occur at other sites.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Mauve Bluet in the OdonataMAP database as at February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Mauve Bluet in the OdonataMAP database as of December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Phenology

Further Resources

The use of photographs by Gregg Darling and Felicity Grundlingh is acknowledged.

Mauve Bluet Proischnura polychromatica (Barnard, 1937)

Other common names: Persbloutjie (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Mauve Bluet Proischnura polychromatica. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/mauve-bluet-proischnura-polychromatica/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Similar Species

Spesbona (Spesbona angusta)
Swamp Bluet (Africallagma glaucum)
Coenagrionidae/Distributions/Ischnura/Odonata

Tropical Bluetail (Ischnura senegalensis)

Posted on by Dragonfly Atlas: Megan Loftie-Eaton, Ryan Tippett, Rene Navarro & Les Underhill

Cover photo by Andrew & Heather Hodgson.

Find the Tropical Bluetail in the FBIS database (Freshwater Biodiversity Information System) here.

Family Coenagrionidae

Identification

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis – Male
Amatikulu Nature Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Very small size

Length up to 31mm; Wingspan reaches 40mm.

The Tropical Bluetail is a small, variable damselfly. It is most easily mistaken for a Sprite (Pseudagrion) or Bluet (Africallagma; Azuragrion). In males, the most diagnostic features are the bicoloured pterostigmas, distinctively shaped blue marking on segments 8 and 9, and the dark metallic blue patch on segment 2. Note that the sides of the thorax may be green or sometimes blue.

Females are very variable and can be dull greenish, brown, or orange. The side of the thorax is brown or greenish-brown in aged females. Mature females have green thorax sides while immature females exhibit bright orange sides. Orange females could be mistaken for a female Palmiet Sprite (Pseudagrion furcigerum), but are smaller and have thicker black markings on the thorax

Click here for more details on identification.

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis – Immature Female
Near Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Habitat

The Tropical Bluetail is able to utilise virtually any still-water habitat, from lakes and pans to dams, ponds, and marshes. It also inhabits slow-flowing sections of rivers and streams. The Tropical Bluetail occupies both perennial and temporary waterbodies. In addition, Ischnura senegalensis is tolerant of high salinities and polluted waters. It normally sits amongst aquatic vegetation like sedges, Reeds, grasses, and waterlilies, and is frequently found on mats of floating algae.

Habitat – Mkuze Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Behaviour

Mature males sit close to the water on vegetation. Females are found in the same areas as the males. Female and immature Tropical Bluetails are often found in long grass and rank growth further from the water.

Most active from September to April, but recorded throughout the year. See Phenology below.

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis – Male
Hluhluwe district, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Status and Conservation

The Tropical Bluetail is very common and widespread. It is listed as of Least Concern in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Ischnura senegalensis is a very hardy and adaptable species. It is often the most common species in degraded or marginal habitats.

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis – Female
Linyanti, Botswana
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Distribution

The Tropical Bluetail has a very wide distribution. It is found throughout most of Africa, Madagascar, the Middle East, Central, Southern, and South East Asia, Indonesia, and on to Papua New Guinea. It is also found in parts of China and Japan.

In South Africa it occurs throughout, including arid areas provided there is suitable habitat.

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis – Male
Amakhosi Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Tropical Bluetail in the OdonataMAP database as of February 2020.

Below is a map showing the distribution of records for Tropical Bluetail in the OdonataMAP database as of December 2024.

The next map below is an imputed map, produced by an interpolation algorithm, which attempts to generate a full distribution map from the partial information in the map above. This map will be improved by the submission of records to the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum.

Ultimately, we will produce a series of maps for all the odonata species in the region. The current algorithm is a new algorithm. The objective is mainly to produce “smoothed” maps that could go into a field guide for odonata. This basic version of the algorithm (as mapped above) does not make use of “explanatory variables” (e.g. altitude, terrain roughness, presence of freshwater — we will be producing maps that take these variables into account soon). Currently, it only makes use of the OdonataMAP records for the species being mapped, as well as all the other records of all other species. The basic maps are “optimistic” and will generally show ranges to be larger than what they probably are.

These maps use the data in the OdonataMAP section of the Virtual Museum, and also the database assembled by the previous JRS funded project, which was led by Professor Michael Samways and Dr KD Dijkstra.

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis – Male
Carnarvon district, Northern Cape
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Phenology

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis – Male
Hluhluwe district, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Further Resources

The use of photographs by Andrew & Heather Hodgson is acknowledged. All other photographs by Ryan Tippett.

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis (Rambur, 1842)

Other common names: Hemelstertjie (Afrikaans)

Recommended citation format: Loftie-Eaton M; Navarro R; Tippett RM; Underhill L. 2025. Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis. Biodiversity and Development Institute. Available online at https://thebdi.org/2020/05/12/tropical-bluetail-ischnura-senegalensis/

References: Tarboton, M; Tarboton, W. (2019). A Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of South Africa. Struik Nature.

Samways, MJ. (2008). Dragonflies and Damselflies of South Africa. Pensoft

Samways, MJ. (2016). Manual of Freshwater Assessment for South Africa: Dragonfly Biotic Index. Suricata 2. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria

Martens, A; Suhling, F. (2007). Dragonflies and Damselflies of Namibia. Gamsberg Macmillan.

Tropical Bluetail Ischnura senegalensis – Male
Hluhluwe district, KwaZulu-Natal
Photo by Ryan Tippett

Similar Species

Palmiet Sprite (Pseudagrion furcigerum)