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Pied Reedtail

Pied Reedtail

Protosticta gravelyi

A species of Protosticta

Native to the dense tropical forests, the glistening wings of pied Reedtail are a sight to behold as they gracefully maneuver near streams and waterfalls. Their diet mainly consists of smaller arthropods, which they capture with precision mid-flight. The nymphs of this species exhibit a remarkable metamorphosis, evolving from aquatic hunters to proficient aerial adults.

General Info About Pied Reedtail
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Attributes of Pied Reedtail
Habitat
Hill stream
Adult Food Sources
Flying insects, mosquitoes, flies, mayflies, small moths
Larva Food Source
Aquatic insect larvae, tadpoles, small fish, worms, zooplankton
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
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Life Cycle of Pied Reedtail
Egg The eggs of pied Reedtail are laid in water or on vegetation near water. They are small, typically oval, and often have a gelatinous coating to prevent desiccation. These eggs will hatch into aquatic nymphs.
Naiad The naiads of pied Reedtail reside in water, exhibiting gill-like structures for respiration. As they grow, they molt several times. These stages show gradual development of wings and other adult features, with color and shape changing subtly with each molt.
Adult The adult pied Reedtail has large, multifaceted eyes and elongated bodies, with wings that are typically clear and net-veined. The coloration may be vibrant and is useful for species identification. Adults are aerial, preying on other insects, and focused on mating.
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Predators of Pied Reedtail Larvae
Frogs, toads, fish, aquatic insects, water beetles
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Predators of Adult Pied Reedtail
Birds, spiders, mantises, frogs, lizards
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Interesting Facts About Pied Reedtail
Pied Reedtail can remain in its nymph form for several years, undergoing a dramatic transformation into adulthood seemingly overnight.
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Scientific Classification of Pied Reedtail
Tips for Finding Pied Reedtail
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Youth Habitat of Pied Reedtail
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Pied Reedtail
Forests and Woodlands, Freshwater Habitats
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How Can You Attract Pied Reedtail
Setting up artificial water sources or using sweet substances may attract adult pied Reedtail as they often seek water and are drawn to certain odors.
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Habitat Preferences of Pied Reedtail Through Different Life Stages
The naiads of pied Reedtail are typically found in the clear, slow-flowing streams and forest pools, where vegetation is dense and they can find shelter and prey. Upon emerging as naiads, they remain aquatic, sticking closely to submerged plants and debris. Adult pied Reedtail favor the areas around these water bodies but venture into adjacent forests and meadows. To locate naiads, search under stones and leaf litter in shallow streams. naiads will be near or on aquatic plants. Adults are best spotted early morning or late evening near the water's edge, perched on vegetation or in flight during mating.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Pied Reedtail
The suitable time to find pied Reedtail is typically during daylight hours, especially on warm, sunny days when they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Pied Reedtail
Warm, calm, and sunny weather with little to no wind is ideal for finding pied Reedtail as it is conducive to their flight and mating activities.
Are Pied Reedtail harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Pied Reedtail
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Larval Aquatic Insect
Pied Reedtail is a fascinating predator that thrives in both its aquatic naiad stage and as a spectacular flying adult. Naiads are efficient hunters beneath the water surface, often targeting mosquito larvae and other aquatic pests. As adults, pied Reedtail continues to manage pest populations, skillfully capturing prey in midair. Their preference for mosquitoes makes them a natural control agent against these widespread pests.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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