Green Lestes vs Red-veined Darter

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Green Lestes Red-veined Darter
Scientific Name Lestes viridis Sympetrum fonscolombii
Order Odonata Odonata
Family Lestidae Libellulidae
Size 39-48 mm body length 33-40mm
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Ponds & Lakes
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Europe Europe, Africa, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Green Lestes

A metallic green damselfly that lays eggs into the bark of overhanging trees. Creates distinctive oviposition scars on willow branches. One of the latest damselflies to fly.

💡

Did You Know?

Uniquely among damselflies, it lays its eggs into tree bark above water rather than into aquatic plants.

Red-veined Darter

A striking darter dragonfly with red veins on the leading edge of the wings and a vivid blue underside to the eyes. Males are bright red while females are yellowish. It is a strong migrant.

💡

Did You Know?

It breeds in temporary pools and can complete its larval development in as little as two months.