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Blue-faced meadowhawk

Blue-faced meadowhawk

Sympetrum ambiguum

A species of Darters

This small dragonfly reaches a maximum total length of 4 cm. The thorax is grayish or olive brown. A mature male has a bright red abdomen, with black stripes; in females and juveniles, it remains brown. Both genders have six black rings on their abdomens.

General Info About Blue-faced meadowhawk
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Attributes of Blue-faced meadowhawk
Colors
Black
Red
Habitat
forest; wetland
Adult Food Sources
Flies, mosquitoes, small moths, mayflies, small beetles
Larva Food Source
Small aquatic insects, tadpoles, small fish, aquatic larva, zooplankton
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Blue-faced meadowhawk is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
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Species Status of Blue-faced meadowhawk
They can be found in Midwest North America.
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Distribution Area of Blue-faced meadowhawk
Southeastern and south central United States
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Life Cycle of Blue-faced meadowhawk
Egg The egg of blue-faced meadowhawk is typically laid in or near water sources. It's small, oval, and buoyant, possessing a hard outer shell to protect the developing naiad within.
Naiad The naiad of blue-faced meadowhawk emerges from the egg. It's aquatic, predatory, and undergoes a series of molts as it grows. Its shape is elongate with an extendable mouthpart used for catching prey.
Adult The adult blue-faced meadowhawk emerges after the final molt with distinct elongated bodies, large multifaceted eyes, and two pairs of transparent wings. Adults are brightly colored, have an exoskeleton, and are agile fliers, seeking mates and laying eggs.
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Adult Size of Blue-faced meadowhawk
3.5 - 4 cm
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Predators of Blue-faced meadowhawk Larvae
Fish, tadpoles, water beetles, other aquatic insects
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Predators of Adult Blue-faced meadowhawk
Birds, spiders, frogs, wasps, other dragonflies
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Scientific Classification of Blue-faced meadowhawk
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Genus
Darters
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Tips for Finding Blue-faced meadowhawk
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Youth Habitat of Blue-faced meadowhawk
Freshwater Habitats
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Adult Habitat of Blue-faced meadowhawk
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Freshwater Habitats, Wetlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Blue-faced meadowhawk
Adult blue-faced meadowhawk are carnivorous and feed on flying insects. Therefore, using insect attractants or small live prey may serve as an effective lure for traps.
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Habitat Preferences of Blue-faced meadowhawk Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of blue-faced meadowhawk are typically laid in water attached to aquatic plants. The naiads, known as naiads, develop in freshwater environments like ponds, slow-moving streams, or lakes with abundant vegetation. Searching for these naiads requires sifting through submerged plant material and mud at the water's edge. Upon emerging from the water, adult blue-faced meadowhawk usually stay near aquatic areas but can also be found in fields and gardens. They are often seen perching on twigs, rocks, or even on the ground in sunny, open areas. To locate the adults, it is best to search along the banks of water bodies, open fields, and gardens during sunny days when these insects are most active.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Blue-faced meadowhawk
The best time to find adult blue-faced meadowhawk is usually during sunny days when they are most active, particularly late mornings and early afternoons. In the case of naiad stages, they can be sought out during the day in their aquatic habitats.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Blue-faced meadowhawk
Warm and sunny weather with little to no wind is ideal for spotting adult blue-faced meadowhawk, as they are more likely to be flying and perching openly. Overcast or cooler conditions may lead them to be less active or hiding in vegetation.
Are Blue-faced meadowhawk harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Blue-faced meadowhawk
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Moths, Butterflies, Small Insects
Blue-faced meadowhawk is an active hunter, exhibiting predatory behavior both in its naiad stage, and as an adult. In water, naiads feed on a variety of aquatic organisms, while adults capture prey mid-flight with their precise and agile flying abilities. This predation is vital for ecosystem balance as it helps control pest populations.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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