Insect · GBIF taxon 1427915
Four-spotted Chaser
Libellula quadrimaculataAlso known as Four-spotted Skimmer
Four-spotted chasers are highly active, territorial dragonflies easily recognized by the dark spots at the center of each wing's leading edge. Males aggressively patrol pond margins from prominent perches, darting out to intercept rivals or capture flying insects. These hardy insects are famous for occasional massive migratory swarms, sometimes numbering in the millions, as they seek out new wetland habitats.
WetlandMigratoryPredatory
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Mosquitoes
- Midges
- Flies
Predators
- Hobby
- Frogs
- Spiders
ThreatsWetland drainage, water pollution, and habitat fragmentation
HabitatsPonds, lakes, peat bogs, and slow-flowing rivers
Life span1 to 2 years (mostly as aquatic nymphs, adults live 1 to 2 months)
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyLibellulidae
- SpeciesLibellula quadrimaculata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Perch Watching: Look for them on tall reeds or twigs near the water's edge, as they frequently return to the exact same spot after hunting.
- Morning Observation: Visit wetlands on cool mornings when these dragonflies are less active and can be found warming themselves in the early sun.
Competitor (c) Ludivine Lamare, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Ludivine Lamare · cc-by
Frequent Companion (c) Frank Sengpiel, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Frank Sengpiel · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Thomas Bresson, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Image unavailableClose Relative
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