Blue Skimmer

Insect

The blue skimmer is a striking dragonfly native to Australia, easily recognized by the males' vibrant blue bodies and translucent wings, while females exhibit a more subdued brownish colouration. Found near still or slow-moving water sources, such as ponds and wetlands, these agile fliers are highly effective hunters, preying on mosquitoes and other small insects mid-flight. Their lifecycle includes an aquatic nymph stage, where they are fierce underwater predators before emerging as adults. Blue skimmers add beauty and ecological balance to their watery habitats with their shimmering colours and darting flight.

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SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Orthetrum caledonicum

FAMILY:

Libellulidae

NATIONAL CONSERVATION STATUS:

Least Concern

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Fun Fact:

The blue skimmer dragonfly males often patrol their territory like tiny helicopter pilots, chasing off rivals and anything else that dares to invade—even if it’s just a floating leaf or a curious human shadow!