The eastern pondhawk, aka common pondhawk, is a dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. These dragonflies are native to the eastern 2/3 of the United States, as well as in Quebec and Ontario, Canada. They also inhabit Mexico, Central America, and South America. Due to their abundance in North America and an increasing population, these insects are listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. They do face the threats of accidental poisoning and pollution.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Erythemis simplicicollis
Length: Up to 1.9 inches
Wingspan: Up to 2.5 inches
Lifespan: Up to 2 years as larvae and up to 2 weeks as adults
Now on to the Facts!
1.) They prefer habitats that contain ponds, swamps, and vernal pools.
2.) Dragonflies have been on this planet for an estimated 300 million years.
3.) These voracious predators hunt on the wing (in mid air).
4.) Eastern pondhawks prey on other winged insects, like damselflies and mosquitoes.
5.) The eastern pondhawk is diurnal (active during the day).
But wait, there’s more on the eastern pondhawk!
6.) Males are very territorial and chase away other male dragonflies that might want to steal their potential partner or algae pad.
7.) The male will stand guard over his mate while she lays her eggs.
Did you know…?
Within just 1 minute after mating, the female begins to lay her eggs.
8.) Some females are capable of mating several times throughout the day.
9.) The female can lay upwards of 900 eggs!
10.) The larvae prey on mosquito larvae, other insect larvae (including each other), tadpoles, and juvenile fish.
Now a Short Eastern Pondhawk Video!
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Some source material acquired from: Wikipedia & IUCN
Photo credit: Hans Hillewaert
