Dragonfly-Widow Skimmer (female)

Male dragonflies are usually more colorful than females (like male and female birds). There are many similar-looking female dragonflies with brown eyes and yellow-and-brown abdomens. Mature males can be found near the water (prime breeding territory); non-breeding immature dragonflies and mature females can be found far from water in either open or wooded habitats. I'm just starting a project to create a free mini-field guide to similar-looking female dragonflies. The interactive version of the guide will be in Apple iBook format -- do you have an Apple iOS device?

Let me answer your question by asking another question: Did you find each of the female dragonflies in a field or meadow, relatively far from a body of water?

Great catch, Lindsy! This individual is a female. Females of several species of dragonflies have bodies that look very similar to your dragonfly, although her wings are very distinctive and unmistakable for any other dragonfly. I suggest you list the common name as follows: Widow Skimmer dragonfly (female).

cool!

Beautiful! Dragonflies are a favorite of mine too!

Wow! I love their wings!