Invertebrates
Black Saddlebags
Tramea lacerata · also called black saddlebags dragonflies
High above a chain of ponds, a loose swarm of black saddlebags dragonflies patrols the open air, their bold dark hindwing patches flashing with each turn as they cover distances few other dragonflies in North America can match.
Overview
The black saddlebags, Tramea lacerata, is a large, powerfully flying dragonfly native to ponds and slow-moving freshwater habitat across most of the United States, southern Canada, and parts of Mexico. Its distinctive dark hindwing patches, unusually strong flight ability, and status as a genuine long-distance migrant make it one of the more remarkable dragonflies found in North America.
A dragonfly built for distance
While most dragonflies stay close to the water that produced them, the black saddlebags regularly undertakes genuine seasonal migrations, a strong-flying lifestyle that sets it apart from the more sedentary habits of many other dragonfly species.
Status
Least Concern — widespread and abundant across suitable freshwater wetland habitat throughout most of North America.
Black Saddlebags: common questions
How can you identify a black saddlebags dragonfly?
Look for a large, solid dark patch at the base of each hindwing, a bold pattern resembling a pair of saddlebags slung over a horse that gives the species its common name and makes it distinguishable from most other dragonflies at a glance, even in flight.
Does the black saddlebags really migrate?
Yes, this species is one of a small number of dragonfly species known to undertake genuine long-distance migrations, with populations moving seasonally between northern and southern parts of its range, sometimes travelling in loose swarms alongside other migratory dragonfly species.
Why does the black saddlebags fly so high above the ground?
This species frequently forages well above the ground, patrolling open airspace for flying insects rather than staying close to the water's surface like many other dragonflies, a foraging strategy that takes advantage of its unusually strong and sustained flying ability.
What does the black saddlebags eat?
This species hunts mosquitoes, flies, and other small flying insects, catching all of its prey in mid-air during sustained flight rather than perching to ambush prey the way some other dragonfly species do.