Insect · GBIF taxon 1428475
Black Saddlebags
Tramea lacerataAlso known as Black Saddlebags Glider, Saddlebags Skimmer
Black saddlebags dominate summer skies with broad hindwings that feature dramatic, dark purplish-black patches near the base. These tireless fliers utilize thermal updrafts to glide effortlessly over fields and ponds, preying on swarms of flying insects mid-air. Females lay eggs while hovering in tandem with males, dipping their abdomens into calm waters while remaining held by their partners.
MigratoryAerobaticWetland
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Mosquitoes
- Midges
- Small moths
Predators
- Birds
- Frogs
- Fish
ThreatsWetland habitat destruction and pesticide run-off
HabitatsPonds, lakes, marshes, and open fields
Life spanUp to 1 year
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyLibellulidae
- SpeciesTramea lacerata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Harmless to humans; safe to observe from any distance.
Responsible observation
- Observation: Look for large gliders soaring effortlessly over open water or sunlit fields on warm afternoons.
- Morning Photowalks: Look along pond margins early in the morning when individuals perch to bask in early light.
- Mating Behavior: Watch pairs flying in tandem as the female dips her abdomen into quiet waters to lay eggs.
Ecological Peer Jeevan Jose, Kerala, India / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Migratory Companion (c) Eugene Zelenko, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Close Relative Close Relative
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