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Eastern pondhawk

Eastern pondhawk

Erythemis simplicicollis

A species of Pondhawks, Also known as Common pondhawk

The eastern pondhawk (Erythemis simplicicollis) has much in common with American fishermen, they love living near the sides of ponds. They are a beautiful insect that is easy to distinguish when it comes to different genders. Females are bright green with bands around the abdomen and the males are bright blue with a green face.

General Info About Eastern pondhawk
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Attributes of Eastern pondhawk
Colors
Black
Green
Blue
Habitat
pond; lake; ditch; creek; stream; river
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, moths, other smaller dragonflies
Larva Food Source
Aquatic invertebrates, larvae of other insects, small fish, tadpoles, zooplankton
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Eastern pondhawk is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Eastern pondhawk
It is native to parts of North America and Central America. It is a widespread and abundant species.
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Distribution Area of Eastern pondhawk
United States, Canada, Wisconsin
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Appearance of Eastern pondhawk
The species is distinguished in that the female is bright green with a banded abdomen and the mature male has a blue abdomen with a green face and green and blue thorax. Nymphs of the eastern pondhawk are identifiable by their green eyes. Over the course of their adult lives the green of the male is gradually transformed into a duller shade of blue and finally a powdery bluish-grey. The wings are distinctively veined and have dark margins near the apices. The length of this dragonfly is 3.5 - 5 cm.
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How to Identify Eastern pondhawk?

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Predators of Eastern pondhawk Larvae
Fish, frogs, toads, water birds, beetles, aquatic insects
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Predators of Adult Eastern pondhawk
Birds, spiders, frogs, bats, mantises
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Interesting Facts About Eastern pondhawk
Eastern pondhawk can fly backward by beating its wings in a unique pattern not found in many other insects.
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Scientific Classification of Eastern pondhawk
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Tips for Finding Eastern pondhawk
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Youth Habitat of Eastern pondhawk
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Eastern pondhawk
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats, Grasslands and Prairies, Wetlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Eastern pondhawk
Since adult eastern pondhawk are predatory and feed on live insects, using bait is impractical; instead, finding them involves locating the habitats they frequent for hunting and mating.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Eastern pondhawk
Warm, sunny, and calm weather conditions are ideal for finding eastern pondhawk, as they rely on sunlight for thermoregulation and prefer not to fly in strong winds or rain.
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How and Where Can You Find Eastern pondhawk at Different Life Stages
Egg Eastern pondhawk eggs are usually laid on or near water. To find them, search for females depositing eggs by touching the water surface or inserting eggs into aquatic plant stems or submerged debris.
Naiad Eastern pondhawk naiads are aquatic and can be found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. Search for them by gently sifting through submerged vegetation or scooping sediment on the water bottom with a net.
Adult As eastern pondhawk metamorphose into adults, they emerge from the water and shed their naiadl skin. Look for them on vegetation, rocks, or other structures near the water's edge, particularly in the early morning.
Eastern pondhawk adults are highly mobile and can be spotted flying around water bodies, perching on vegetation, or patrolling territories. Search for them in open, sunny areas near water, and observe quietly to avoid startling them away.
Are Eastern pondhawk harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Eastern pondhawk
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Aquatic Insects
The eastern pondhawk is an adept hunter both in its aquatic naiad stage and as an airborne adult. As a naiad, it uses extendable jaws to snatch unsuspecting prey in the water. After metamorphosis, the adult eastern pondhawk skillfully captures pests mid-flight, using its exceptional flying abilities and acute vision. This helps control pest populations and maintain ecosystem balance.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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