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Red saddlebags

Red saddlebags

Tramea onusta

A species of Saddlebags

It has translucent wings with red veins, and has characteristic dark red blotches at their proximal base, which makes the dragonfly look as if it is carrying saddlebags when flying. The last two bands and the cerci of these dragonflies are black. While male red-mantled saddlebags have a distinct red body, females will typically have light brown or pale orange bodies, as well as lighter white and brown eyes.

General Info About Red saddlebags
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Attributes of Red saddlebags
Colors
Brown
Black
Red
Habitat
forest; wetland; artificial/aquatic area
Adult Food Sources
Flies, mosquitoes, small moths, small beetles, other flying insects
Larva Food Source
Small aquatic insects, micro-crustaceans, tadpoles, larvae of other insects, small fish
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Red saddlebags 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 Red saddlebags
It is found throughout the eastern United States.
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Adult Size of Red saddlebags
4.5 - 6 cm
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Predators of Red saddlebags Larvae
Frogs, toads, fish, aquatic insects, birds
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Predators of Adult Red saddlebags
Birds, spiders, mantises, frogs, wasps
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Interesting Facts About Red saddlebags
The red saddlebags can fly backwards, a unique ability showcasing their exceptional aerial agility and precision.
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Scientific Classification of Red saddlebags
Class
Bugs
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Order
Odes
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Family
Skimmers
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Tips for Finding Red saddlebags
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Youth Habitat of Red saddlebags
Freshwater Habitats
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Habitat Preferences of Red saddlebags Through Different Life Stages
The egg stage of red saddlebags occurs on the water's surface, where eggs are laid on floating debris or vegetation. The naiad stage of red saddlebags is aquatic, found submerged amongst pondweed or debris on the bottom of calm freshwater bodies like ponds, marshes, or still sections of streams. When looking for red saddlebags's naiads, search along the muddy bottoms of these water sources. The adult red saddlebags, after undergoing metamorphosis, is most commonly seen around the shores of lakes, rivers, and wetlands, where they are actively hunting for food or basking in the sun. For a successful sighting, visit these habitats during warmer days, when adults are most active in flight.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Red saddlebags
The suitable time to find red saddlebags is during daylight hours, particularly on warm, sunny days when they are most active. Early morning and late afternoon are especially good times to spot red saddlebags when they may be basking in the sun or hunting for prey.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Red saddlebags
The suitable weather for finding red saddlebags includes sunny and warm conditions with little to no wind, as this creates an ideal environment for red saddlebags to hunt and mate. Red saddlebags are less active during cold, overcast, or rainy days.
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How and Where Can You Find Red saddlebags at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of red saddlebags are laid in water or on aquatic vegetation and can be found by carefully inspecting the surfaces of leaves or submerged objects in calm water bodies such as ponds or slow-moving streams.
Naiad Naiad red saddlebags are aquatic and can be found in the same ponds or streams where eggs are laid. Look for them among submerged vegetation, debris, or along the muddy bottoms. They are well camouflaged, so a cautious and detail-oriented search is necessary.
Adult Adult red saddlebags are often found near bodies of water such as ponds, lakes, and streams where they hunt and breed. They can be spotted perching on vegetation or patrolling the water surface. For better chances of sighting them, stay still near water bodies, as their keen eyesight can detect movement from afar.
Are Red saddlebags harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Red saddlebags
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Naiads
Diets
Mosquitoes, Flies, Small Insects
Red saddlebags is a voracious predator actively preying on flying insects during its adult stage, while as a naiad, it hunts in aquatic environments. It primarily consumes mosquitoes, thus controlling their populations. An interesting tactic of red saddlebags involves its agile, swift flight to catch prey mid-air, showcasing impressive hunting prowess.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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