Fauna
Insect · GBIF taxon 1425139

Fawn Darner

Boyeria vinosa

Also known as Fawn-spotted Darner

Fawn darners are rich brown dragonflies easily recognized by two distinct yellow spots on each side of the thorax and small dark spots at the base of their wings. They patrol slow, shaded woodland streams and river margins, becoming remarkably active at dusk when most other dragonflies have roosted for the night. Their aquatic larvae inhabit clean, flowing waters, where they cling to submerged tree roots and rocks while ambush-hunting underwater invertebrates.

CrepuscularStream DwellerPredatory
Fawn Darner reference1 / 7
Licensed reference(c) Maurice Raymond, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Mosquitoes
  • Midges
  • Mayflies
Predators
  • Birds
  • Frogs
  • Larger dragonflies
ThreatsWater pollution, riparian deforestation, and stream siltation
HabitatsShaded streams, clear rivers, forest brooks
Life span1–2 years (majority spent as aquatic nymph; adults live 1–2 months)
Classification
  1. OrderOdonata
  2. FamilyAeshnidae
  3. GenusBoyeria
  4. SpeciesBoyeria vinosa
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Harmless to humans; safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Time Your Search: Scan shaded forest streams during late afternoon or twilight when adults hunt low over the water.
  • Inspect the Banks: Check mossy logs, tree trunks, and overhanging root wads near flowing water for resting adults.
  • Use Low Light: Look for their distinctive glowing eyes reflecting torchlight along stream channels at dusk.
Related species
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Found in Collections

Ecosystem chain

Wetland Territory

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