Insect
Comet Darner
Anax longipesAlso known as Long-legged Darner
Males are unmistakable with brilliant red abdomens trailing behind emerald green thoraxes like a streak of fire as they patrol pond margins. Females display more muted reddish-brown tones and insert eggs directly into aquatic plants near the water line. Their powerful flight relies on independent wing control, allowing them to snatch flying insects directly from the air with surgical precision.
Fast FlyerPredatoryColorful
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyMosquitoes, Midges, Small moths
Predators
- Birds
- Frogs
- Larger dragonflies
ThreatsWetland drainage, aquatic pollution, and loss of emergent vegetation
HabitatsPonds, lakes, fishless pools, and slow-moving streams
Life span1–2 years
Classification
- FamilyAeshnidae
- SpeciesAnax longipes
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
- Pond Patrols: Search for males making fast, low passes over open water on hot, sunny afternoons.
- Observe Perching: Look along sunny tree trunks or tall reeds where tired individuals take brief rests.
Close Relative (c) Eugene Zelenko, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Family Member (c) 116916927065934112165, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by 116916927065934112165 · cc-by
Family Member (c) sprcrkwild, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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