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Eight-spotted skimmer

Eight-spotted skimmer

Libellula forensis

A species of Skimmers

The eight-spotted skimmer (Libellula forensis) is identified by the eight black markings on its wings. It is occasionally confused with the Twelve-spotted skimmer that is sometimes called the Ten-spotted skimmer. You may attempt to desperately count the number of spots on these fast-moving skimmers, but the major differentiation in this one is the lack of black tips on their wings.

General Info About Eight-spotted skimmer
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Attributes of Eight-spotted skimmer
Colors
Black
Yellow
White
Habitat
near pond and lake; mountainous area
Adult Food Sources
Mosquitoes, flies, moths, mayflies, other small flying insects
Larva Food Source
Aquatic insect larvae, tadpoles, small fish, daphnia, zooplankton
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Eight-spotted skimmer typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Eight-spotted skimmer
It can be found west of the Rocky Mountains.
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Distribution Area of Eight-spotted skimmer
North America
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Appearance of Eight-spotted skimmer
This dragonfly features the standard skimmer body form, and earns its name from the eight black markings on the wings. Males are additionally adorned with a total of eight opaque white spots. Some females may also have white spots, making them the female dragonflies with white spots on the wings. The total length is 4.5 - 5 cm.
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How to Identify Eight-spotted skimmer?

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Life Cycle of Eight-spotted skimmer
Egg The egg of eight-spotted skimmer is typically laid in water or on vegetation near water. It is small and may be colored or camouflaged to blend with the environment.
Naiad After hatching, the naiad is aquatic, predatory, and molts multiple times as it grows. It resembles the adult but lacks wings and has external gills for breathing underwater.
Subimago The nymph of eight-spotted skimmer leaves the water to undergo its final molt on a stable surface, transitioning into the adult form. This stage is characterized by vulnerability as it prepares for the last molt.
Adult Emerging from the molt, the adult eight-spotted skimmer exhibits a slender body, large eyes, elongated wings, and vivid colors. The adult now flies, mates, and lays eggs, completing the life cycle.
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Adult Size of Eight-spotted skimmer
4.5 - 5 cm
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Interesting Facts About Eight-spotted skimmer
Eight-spotted skimmer can fly backward, a rare ability not commonly found in the insect world.
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Scientific Classification of Eight-spotted skimmer
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Tips for Finding Eight-spotted skimmer
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Youth Habitat of Eight-spotted skimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Eight-spotted skimmer
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas, Mangroves and Coastal Wetlands
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How Can You Attract Eight-spotted skimmer
Luring eight-spotted skimmer typically involves creating an attractive environment, as they do not respond to bait in the same way mammals or birds might. Planting native vegetation that attracts small insects can serve as natural bait because it creates a food source and suitable habitat.
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Habitat Preferences of Eight-spotted skimmer Through Different Life Stages
The eight-spotted skimmer egg stage is found in aquatic environments, often still or slow-moving water like ponds, marshes, or the calm edges of streams. The naiads exist submerged amidst aquatic vegetation and debris at the bottom, where they can camouflage against predators and hunt small aquatic organisms. Adults typically inhabit areas around water bodies, where they are seen perched on plants or hovering over the water to feed and mate. To seek out each stage, visit respective habitats; examine plants and water surfaces for adults, sift through water vegetation for naiads, and inspect shallow water edges for eggs.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Eight-spotted skimmer
The best time to observe adult eight-spotted skimmer is during warm, sunny days, preferably in the late morning or early afternoon when they are most active. For observing naiads, any time is suitable as long as you can access their aquatic habitats.
Are Eight-spotted skimmer harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Eight-spotted skimmer
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Eight-spotted skimmer are apex predators in their aquatic and terrestrial environments. In the naiad stage, they are aquatic and feed voraciously on other water-dwelling organisms. As adults, they catch their prey mid-flight using their exceptional flying abilities and highly developed eyesight. Hunting is primarily for sustenance.
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