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Shadow darner

Shadow darner

Aeshna umbrosa

A species of Hawker dragonflies

The species is on the Red List of the IUCN as not endangered, year of assessment 2007, the trend of the population is stable according to the IUCN.

General Info About Shadow darner
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Attributes of Shadow darner
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Shadow darner is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Shadow darner typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Life Cycle of Shadow darner
Egg The shadow darner begins its life cycle when the female deposits eggs on or near aquatic vegetation. These eggs are usually oval and may be variably colored to blend with the environment, providing camouflage from predators.
Naiad Upon hatching, the shadow darner enters the naiad stage, characterized by an aquatic lifestyle. The naiad resembles a miniature adult without wings and undergoes a series of molts, growing larger and gradually developing external wing buds and increased functionalities.
Adult The adult shadow darner emerges after the final molt, leaving the exuviae behind. At this stage, shadow darner has developed wings, which may take some time to harden. The adult's primary functions are dispersal, feeding, and reproduction. It exhibits a markedly different coloration, size, and morphology than the nymph stage.
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Adult Size of Shadow darner
7 - 8 cm
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Predators of Shadow darner Larvae
Fish, aquatic insects, tadpoles, newts
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Predators of Adult Shadow darner
Birds, spiders, frogs, other dragonflies, mammals such as bats
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Interesting Facts About Shadow darner
Shadow darner can fly backwards, thanks to its independent wing muscle control?
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Scientific Classification of Shadow darner
Tips for Finding Shadow darner
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How Can You Attract Shadow darner
Adult shadow darner are carnivorous and are typically attracted to various small insects. In their aquatic naias stage, shadow darner nymphs prey upon small aquatic creatures such as tadpoles, mosquito larvae, and other invertebrates.
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Habitat Preferences of Shadow darner Through Different Life Stages
The naiads of shadow darner, or naiads, are aquatic and typically found in the debris or vegetation of still or slow-moving freshwater bodies like ponds and marshes. They prefer areas with abundant prey and some vegetation for cover. The adults are usually found in proximity to the breeding waters but are strong fliers and can also be seen in fields, meadows, and gardens, often hunting smaller insects. To find the different stages, for naiads, one should search aquatic habitats with a net, gently sifting through the vegetation or mud. For adults, searching near water sources where they mate and lay eggs or in open areas with ample insect prey would be fruitful.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Shadow darner
The best time to find shadow darner is during daylight hours, especially in the warmer parts of the day when they are most active. The naiads are present year-round in water bodies, but adults are typically seen from spring to fall.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Shadow darner
Warm, sunny weather without strong winds is ideal for finding shadow darner; these conditions allow adults to fly more actively and increase the likelihood of spotting them near water bodies.
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How and Where Can You Find Shadow darner at Different Life Stages
Egg Shadow darner eggs are often laid in or near water. Search for them by examining vegetation close to the water's edge or submerged plants where shadow darner females may deposit eggs.
Naiad Shadow darner naiads or naiads are aquatic predators. They are often found in still or slow-moving water bodies such as ponds, marshes, or slow streams. Look for them by gently searching among aquatic vegetation or beneath debris on the water bottom.
Adult Shadow darner naiads emerge from the water to undergo metamorphosis into adults. This usually occurs on vegetation or rocks near water. To find them, search these areas early in the morning for newly emerged adults or empty exuviae (naiadl skins).
Adult shadow darner are most commonly found hunting or patrolling around the edges of ponds, lakes, and rivers. Spot them by looking for their characteristic hovering flight or observing them resting on vegetation, preferably on sunny days when they're most active.
Are Shadow darner harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Shadow darner
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Moths, Butterflies, Smaller Insects
Shadow darner is a proficient hunter, both in its aquatic naiad stage and as an airborne adult. In water, naiads stealthily stalk or swiftly ambush prey, using their extendable lower lips to snatch unsuspecting aquatic insects. Adults capture flying insects mid-flight, often employing remarkable aerial agility powered by their strong wings. Their prey is consumed on the wing, showcasing an impressive adaptation to an in-flight lifestyle. This predation serves primarily to sustain themselves energetically.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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