Fauna
Insect · GBIF taxon 1429503

Swift Setwing

Dythemis velox

Swift Setwings are agile river skimmers celebrated for their habit of perching on emergent twigs with their wings swept forward and down in a distinctive cocked posture. Mature males display pruinose blue-gray abdomens contrasted with dark wingtips and striking metallic eyes, patrolling sunlit riffles of clear streams. They dart out rapidly to snatch gnats and other insects mid-flight before promptly returning to the exact same vantage point.

DragonflyAerial PredatorFreshwater
Swift Setwing reference1 / 7
Licensed reference(c) Kathy Richardson, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Midges
  • Mosquitoes
  • Mayflies
Predators
  • Flycatchers
  • Swallows
  • Larger dragonflies
ThreatsWater pollution, siltation, and clearing of riparian vegetation
HabitatsClear streams, rocky rivers, spring runs, and adjacent riparian edges
Life span1 to 2 years including the aquatic nymph stage; adults live several weeks
Classification
  1. OrderOdonata
  2. FamilyLibellulidae
  3. GenusDythemis
  4. SpeciesDythemis velox
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
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Perch Watching: Focus on sunny twigs protruding from flowing water where individuals repeatedly land.
  • Approach Angle: Step slowly and avoid casting your shadow over the dragonfly to prevent flight.
Related species
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Found in Collections

Ecosystem chain

Wetland Territory

Swift Setwing is found in this collection. Identify it in Fauna to fill this slot and continue your progress.

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