Pantala flavescens - Wandering Glider

Male identification: Golden dragonfly with conical-shaped abdomen and a series of long diamond-shaped spots oriented down the mid-dorsal line of the abdomen, thickly edged white. Reddish eyes and pale face. Very broad wings and pale pterostigma.

© Jeff Davies	© Jeff Davies

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Female identification: Female similar to male

Similar species: Unlikely to be confused with other species due to distinct behaviour. Superficially similar to female O. caledonicum and O. villosovittatum which tend to fly fast without gliding and perch low to the ground.

Behaviour: Most likely to be seen flying relatively slowly high over open ground with periodic glides on very broad wings.

Distribution: Only recently recorded in Victoria at Rosebud on the Mornington Peninsula. Likely to be a regular annual visitor, particularly after strong northerly winds.

Australian State distribution (from CSIRO Entomology)

Habitat: Ephemeral pools. Open areas with extensive bare ground radiating heat such as heath, beaches, car parks etc.

Status: Uncommon and widespread

Flight period: Recorded once in January