Dragonflies and Damselflies: Odonata

Physical characteristics: The body of the wandering glider is yellowish red in color. The base of the back wing is distinctly widened, with a faint yellowish patch. The abdomen narrows toward the tip and has a black strip along the back.

Geographic range: This species is found worldwide but is more common in the tropics.

Habitat: The wandering glider breeds in small, shallow pools, often in puddles left by thunderstorms. Adults are commonly found far away from water.

Diet: The species eats small flying insects, especially gnats, mosquitoes, and midges.

Behavior and reproduction: These insects are strong fliers and seldom land. They sometimes form large feeding and migratory swarms.

Wandering gliders are strong fliers and seldom land. They sometimes form large feeding and migratory swarms. (Illustration by Jacqueline Mahannah. Reproduced by permission.)

The feeding flights may continue into the early evening. They are often seen far out at sea and are attracted to the lights of ships at night.

Males patrol territories about 30 to 150 feet (9 to 45.7 meters) in length. After mating, the male remains with the female while she lays her eggs. Females lay their eggs by tapping the surface of the water with the tip of the abdomen. The larvae live in temporary pools, including swimming pools, and develop rapidly.

Wandering gliders and people: This species is not known to affect people or their activities.

Conservation status: This species is not threatened or endangered. ∎