Invertebrates
Black-tailed Skimmer
Orthetrum cancellatum
On a gravel path beside an old quarry pond, a black-tailed skimmer basks with its wings flat, its pale blue abdomen glowing against the stones.
Overview
The black-tailed skimmer, Orthetrum cancellatum, is a Least Concern dragonfly of ponds, gravel pits, and slow rivers across Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. Its blue-and-black male and love of sunbathing on bare ground make it one of the most recognisable skimmers of warm, open waters.
A dragonfly that loves bare ground
Warm bare surfaces help the skimmer raise its body temperature for flight, so it is often found on paths and gravel by the water.
Status
Least Concern, widespread and increasing in parts of Britain.
Black-tailed Skimmer: common questions
Why is it called the black-tailed skimmer?
It is named for the black tip at the end of the male's pale blue abdomen.
How does the black-tailed skimmer lay its eggs?
The female dips the tip of her abdomen into the water as she flies over it, releasing her eggs.
Where does it rest?
It rests with its wings spread flat on bare ground, paths, and stones, taking in the heat of the sun.
Where is the black-tailed skimmer found?
It lives around ponds, gravel pits, and slow rivers across Europe, North Africa, and western Asia.