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Needham's skimmer

Needham's skimmer

Libellula needhami

A species of Skimmers

Libellula needhami is a dragonfly species of the genus Libellula from the subfamily Libellulinae. Its distribution area extends in the plains of the gulf coast of the USA. The scientific name honors the American entomologist James George Needham (1868-1957).

General Info About Needham's skimmer
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Attributes of Needham's skimmer
Colors
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
wetland
Adult Food Sources
Mosquitoes, flies, moths, small beetles, other flying insects
Larva Food Source
Aquatic insect larvae, small fish, tadpoles, zooplankton, small crustaceans
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Needham's skimmer is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Needham's skimmer
It is found in the Caribbean, Central America, and North America. The population is stable.
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Adult Size of Needham's skimmer
4.5 - 6 cm
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Predators of Needham's skimmer Larvae
Frogs, toads, fish, aquatic insects, tadpoles, salamanders, water beetles
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Predators of Adult Needham's skimmer
Birds, spiders, mantises, frogs, wasps, robber flies
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Interesting Facts About Needham's skimmer
The larvae of needham's skimmer possess rectal gills, breathing underwater by drawing water into their hindgut and expelling it, a unique biological scuba system.
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Scientific Classification of Needham's skimmer
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Tips for Finding Needham's skimmer
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Youth Habitat of Needham's skimmer
Freshwater Habitats
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Habitat Preferences of Needham's skimmer Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of needham's skimmer are laid in freshwater bodies like ponds or slow-moving streams, often among aquatic vegetation. naiads develop in these aquatic environments, hiding in debris or sediment and preying on other small aquatic organisms. Upon maturity, the naiads emerge and undergo metamorphosis to become adults. Adult needham's skimmer, now being terrestrial, are commonly seen around the edges of wetlands, rivers, and lakes, where they hunt for insects in open, sunny areas. To observe these stages, one would search for the eggs and naiads in calm waters with abundant plant life, and for adults, areas adjacent to these habitats that provide ample space for flight and hunting would be ideal.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Needham's skimmer
The best time to find needham's skimmer varies by life stage. Naiads are active throughout their time in the water until they emerge. The emerging and adult stages are typically more abundant during warmer months, particularly on sunny days. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal times to spot adults when they are less active and more likely to be perched on vegetation.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Needham's skimmer
Needham's skimmer thrives in warm, sunny weather with little to no wind. Disturbed weather, cold temperatures, or rain can decrease their activity making them more difficult to find.
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How and Where Can You Find Needham's skimmer at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of needham's skimmer are laid in water or on aquatic vegetation. To find eggs, inspect the stems and leaves of water plants or submerged objects where they might be laid. Gentle disturbances in shallow water may also reveal eggs.
Naiad Naiads live in water and can be found by carefully examining the substrate of slow-moving or still freshwater bodies, such as ponds and lakes. Look under rocks, in mud, and in aquatic vegetation.
Adult Needham's skimmer adults are typically found near bodies of water where they can mate and lay eggs. Look for resting needham's skimmer on vegetation, particularly on plants around the edges of water bodies or in open areas with sun exposure. Binoculars can be helpful for viewing adult needham's skimmer in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
Are Needham's skimmer harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Needham's skimmer
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Purpose
Feed Itself
Needham's skimmer, with its impressive speed and agility, preys on airborne pests in both its naiad and adult stages, targeting mosquitoes, flies, and other soft-bodied insects. The insect captures its prey with a swift and precise strike, mainly to satisfy its own hunger. In water, as a naiad, needham's skimmer hunts by ambush, taking advantage of prey that pass by, exhibiting an incredible adaptation in both habitats.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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