Common Whitetail Plathemis lydia
Identification
This dragonfly has a white male abdomen and broad wing bands.
Location
Common statewide
Size
Two inch body
Diet
It feeds on small flying insects.
Habitat
It occurs near ponds and streams.
Activity Period
May to September
Behavior
It is territorial and perches frequently. It is active in warm months.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in summer.
Population
The population is stable statewide.
History
It has long been widespread in Ohio.
Human Interactions
It often perches on trails.
Facts
It is one of the most recognizable dragonflies.
Sources
ODNR NatureServe
Insects | Ponds streams lakes | Statewide