Eusynthemis guttata - Southern Tigertail

Male identification: Single pairs of spots of almost even size on each abdominal segment. No pale spots at the base of each wing.

Female identification: Markings slightly less bold than male. Abdomen even thickness along its length, lacking any 'pinch-point' near the base.

Similar species: Almost identical to E. tillyardi. Male of E. tillyardi may differ by having spots on segment 9 separate, as opposed to joined in E. guttata. Labrum in E. tillyardi is yellow, compared to dark in E. guttata.

Behaviour: Tends to fly relatively slowly, low over water and amongst low vegetation such as ferns. Regularly perches in sunlight.

Distribution: Apparently widespread at least throughout eastern and central Victoria. Most frequently recorded between about 600-1200m

Australian State distribution (from CSIRO Entomology)

Habitat: Springs and seepages surrounded by ferns and low vegetation with patches of sunlight.

Status: Common and widespread

Flight period: December to March