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Spot-winged glider

Spot-winged glider

Pantala hymenaea

A species of Rainpool gliders

The spot-winged glider (Pantala hymenaea) is a skimmer known to spend time in temporary pools, which makes it part of the Rainpool gliders. This one is also known as the Spot-winged glider due to the dark spot on their hindwing. They are also known to eat mosquitos until the darker hours.

General Info About Spot-winged glider
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Attributes of Spot-winged glider
Colors
Brown
White
Habitat
temporary wetland; flooded area; pool; garden pond
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, mayflies, small moths
Larva Food Source
Aquatic insect larvae, small fish, tadpoles, zooplankton, other small aquatic organisms
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Spot-winged glider 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 Spot-winged glider
It is native to North, Central and South America. It is a widespread and common species in the New World, occurring in North, Central and South America.
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Distribution Area of Spot-winged glider
Canada, United States, Mexico
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Life Cycle of Spot-winged glider
Egg The spot-winged glider begins as an egg, often laid in water or damp locations. These eggs are typically small and lack distinct features visible to the naked eye.
Naiad Upon hatching, the naiad spot-winged glider emerges, which is aquatic and predatory. This stage features significant growth, molting several times, with incremental changes in size and shape.
As the spot-winged glider grows, it becomes a naiad. This stage resembles the adult in shape but lacks fully developed wings and genitalia. The naiad continues to molt and grow.
Adult Emerging from the final molt, the adult spot-winged glider has wings and reproductive organs. Its body is hardened and colored for mating displays. The adult is terrestrial and highly mobile.
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Predators of Adult Spot-winged glider
Birds, spiders, frogs, bats, other predatory insects
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Interesting Facts About Spot-winged glider
Spot-winged glider can travel up to 7,000 kilometers during migration, the farthest known distance for any insect.
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Scientific Classification of Spot-winged glider
Tips for Finding Spot-winged glider
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Youth Habitat of Spot-winged glider
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Spot-winged glider
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas, Savannas, Tropical Rainforests
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How Can You Attract Spot-winged glider
Adult spot-winged glider are typically located around bodies of water where insects are plentiful, as they feed on smaller flying insects. Naiads are aquatic predators and can be found in the water preying on other small aquatic organisms.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Spot-winged glider
Adult spot-winged glider prefer sunny and warm weather, as it allows for better flight and activity. It is less likely to find them during rainy or cold weather. For naiads, the weather is less of a factor since they are aquatic.
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How and Where Can You Find Spot-winged glider at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of spot-winged glider are typically laid in or near water bodies. Look for them by carefully examining the surface of still or slow-moving water, such as ponds or the quiet edges of streams and rivers.
Naiad Naiads of spot-winged glider are aquatic and can be found within various water bodies. To find them, gently sweep a net through the water, especially along the bottom where the naiads may be hiding under debris or sediment.
Adult As spot-winged glider transition from naiads to adult, they climb up vegetation to emerge. This can be observed near water bodies, where you can find exuviae (shed skins) on plants or rocks at the water's edge.
Spot-winged glider adults are strong fliers and are typically found around water sources. To find them, visit a pond, lake, or wetland, and look for spot-winged glider flying or perching on vegetation, often in sunny spots where they can absorb heat.
Are Spot-winged glider harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Spot-winged glider
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Winged Ants, Termites
Spot-winged glider is an aerial acrobat, catching its prey mid-flight. Adult spot-winged gliders hunt on the wing, using their excellent flying skills and sharp vision to snatch mosquitoes, flies, and other insects out of the air. The naiad stage is aquatic and known to consume a variety of soft-bodied aquatic invertebrates, including mosquito larvae, contributing to natural pest control.
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