Band-winged dragonlet

Near the entryway to (Pelican Island) Audubon House, this band-winged dragonlet (Erythrodiplax umbrata) posed for Bob Montanaro, Pelican Island Audubon Society Office Manager. It is a female or a young male according to the Xerces Society Field Guide to Migratory Dragonflies.

This Guide splits dragonflies into 2 groups: fliers or perchers. Fliers capture their prey in flight. Perchers like the band-winged dragonlet perch, usually in a horizontal or diagonal position, and await their prey.

This smallish dragonfly is abundant in the tropics, is frequently found from Florida to Texas, and has migrated as far north as Ohio.