Great Blue Skimmer (Libellula vibrans)
Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the Great Blue Skimmer.
Updated: 8/11/2017; Authored By Staff Writer; Content ©www.InsectIdentification.org
Great Blue Skimmer
The Great Blue Skimmer is a large dragonfly that is content to watch the summer days go by.
The brightly colored bodies of the Great Blue Skimmer are characteristic of most of the dragonflies in the Libellulidae family. Members are sometimes called King Skimmers because of their large size. The wings of the Great Blue Skimmer have black bands and spots. The males have an abdomen that is thick and light blue. They may have some green markings on the sides of their thorax ('chest'). Females have brown abdomen and aren't really blue at all!
Adults are most active in the peak summer months. Males can be seen resting on vegetation for long periods of time. Females flick fertilized eggs onto the shore after picking up a drop of water to help them stick on land. Larvae hatch and develop in still waters.
