Have you ever watched a dragonfly hover motionless above a pond, then suddenly dart away at speeds that would make a race car jealous?
Illinois’s wetlands, lakes, and streams host an incredible diversity of these aerial acrobats—over 20 distinct species that transform the state’s waterways into nature’s own air show.
From the massive Common Green Darner that migrates thousands of miles to the tiny Eastern Amberwing that barely spans two inches, Illinois dragonflies showcase evolution’s creativity in both form and function.
This comprehensive guide will help you identify the most common and fascinating dragonfly species across Illinois, understand their unique behaviors, and discover the best places to spot them.
Whether you’re exploring the wetlands near Chicago or hiking through southern Illinois’s river valleys, you’ll learn to recognize these remarkable predators by their distinctive colors, flight patterns, and preferred habitats.
Common Green Darner (Anax junius)
The Common Green Darner reigns as Illinois’s most impressive dragonfly, with a wingspan reaching nearly four inches and a body length that can exceed three inches. These emerald-bodied giants are the state’s most recognizable species, and for good reason—they’re the only dragonflies in Illinois that undertake true migrations, traveling from Canada to Mexico and back again.
Physical Characteristics:
- Bright green thorax with distinctive blue-green coloration
- Clear wings with amber tinting at the base
- Males display a blue abdomen with a black stripe
- Females show brownish-red abdomens with similar striping
Behavior and Habitat: Green Darners patrol large territories around lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. They’re aggressive hunters, capable of catching prey while flying at speeds up to 35 mph. Unlike most dragonflies, they’ll hunt well into the evening hours and can be seen flying in groups during migration periods.
Pro Tip: Look for Green Darners hovering about 6-10 feet above water surfaces. They’re most active during warm afternoons and can often be spotted from quite a distance due to their size and bold coloration.
Eastern Pondhawk (Erythemis simplicicollis)
The Eastern Pondhawk presents one of nature’s most striking examples of sexual dimorphism among Illinois dragonflies. Males undergo a dramatic color transformation as they mature, changing from their juvenile green coloration to a stunning powder blue that makes them unmistakable in the field.
Distinctive Features:
- Males: Brilliant powder blue body with green eyes
- Females: Bright green body with clear wings
- Both sexes have clear wings without prominent markings
- Compact build with a body length of about 1.5 inches
These territorial hunters prefer shallow waters with abundant vegetation, making them common residents of park ponds, marshes, and slow streams throughout Illinois. They’re particularly fond of perching on emergent vegetation, where they wait patiently for prey to venture within striking distance.
Did You Know? Eastern Pondhawks are voracious predators that will eat other dragonflies, including members of their own species. They’ve been observed catching and consuming prey up to 60% of their own body weight.
Blue Dasher (Pachydiplax longipennis)
The Blue Dasher’s name perfectly captures its essence—these compact dragonflies are built for speed and agility. Males sport a distinctive blue-gray coloration with yellow stripes along their sides, while females display more subdued brown and yellow patterns.
Key Identification Points:
- Males: Blue-gray abdomen with yellow side stripes
- Females: Brown and yellow striped pattern
- Clear wings with amber patches at the base
- Relatively small size (1.5-2 inches)
Blue Dashers are habitat generalists, adapting well to both natural and artificial water bodies. They’re commonly found around suburban ponds, drainage ditches, and even temporary pools. Their adaptability has made them one of the most successful dragonfly species in urban environments.
Behavioral Notes: These dragonflies are excellent perchers, often returning to the same favorite spot repeatedly. They prefer low perches on rocks, logs, or vegetation within a few feet of the water surface. Their short, rapid flights between perches are characteristic of the species.
Widow Skimmer (Libellula luctuosa)
The Widow Skimmer earned its somber name from the distinctive black and white wing patterns that resemble mourning attire. These large skimmers are among the most photogenic dragonflies in Illinois, with males displaying striking white patches on their wings that contrast beautifully with their dark bodies.
Wing Pattern Recognition:
- Males: Broad white patches on all four wings with black bases
- Females: Dark brown patches on wing bases without white areas
- Body coloration: Dark brown to black with lighter side markings
- Wingspan: 3-3.5 inches
Widow Skimmers favor larger water bodies with open areas for patrolling. They’re territorial insects that defend prime real estate along shorelines, often engaging in aerial battles with intruders. Their preference for sunny, open waters makes them relatively easy to spot during midday hours.
Habitat Preferences: These dragonflies thrive in lakes, large ponds, and slow-moving rivers with minimal canopy cover. They’re less common in heavily wooded areas but can be abundant in prairie pothole regions and agricultural landscapes with suitable water sources.
Twelve-spotted Skimmer (Libellula pulchella)
The Twelve-spotted Skimmer showcases nature’s precision in pattern design, with males displaying exactly twelve dark spots across their four wings. This mathematical perfection makes them one of the most easily identified dragonflies in Illinois, especially when combined with their striking white wing patches.
Distinctive Wing Patterns:
- Males: Twelve dark spots plus white patches between spots
- Females: Twelve dark spots without white patches
- Clear wings with crisp, well-defined markings
- Medium size with robust build
These skimmers are habitat specialists, preferring shallow, weedy waters where they can hunt effectively. They’re particularly common in marshes, farm ponds, and prairie potholes. Their hunting strategy involves short flights from perches, making them excellent subjects for photography.
Flight Behavior: Twelve-spotted Skimmers are methodical hunters that return to preferred perches repeatedly. They tend to fly lower than many other species, rarely venturing more than 10 feet above the water surface. This behavior makes them accessible to observers and photographers.
Common Whitetail (Plathemis lydia)
The Common Whitetail might be the most aptly named dragonfly in Illinois. Mature males develop a distinctive white, powdery coating on their abdomens that makes them visible from considerable distances. This chalky white “pruinescence” is actually a waxy coating that helps regulate body temperature.
Sexual Dimorphism:
- Males: Bright white abdomen with dark wing bands
- Females: Brown abdomen with yellow spots and wing bands
- Both sexes have distinctive dark bands across all wings
- Stocky build with broad wings
Common Whitetails are aggressive defenders of territory, often engaging in elaborate aerial displays to ward off intruders. They prefer small to medium-sized water bodies with muddy or sandy bottoms, making them common in farm ponds, quarries, and marsh edges.
Territorial Behavior: Males establish territories of 15-20 feet along shorelines and will chase away any intruders, including much larger dragonfly species. Their bold nature and distinctive appearance make them favorites among dragonfly enthusiasts.
Black Saddlebags (Tramea lacerata)
Black Saddlebags earned their name from the distinctive dark patches at the base of their hindwings, which resemble old-fashioned saddlebags. These large, robust dragonflies are among the most powerful fliers in Illinois, capable of sustained flight over considerable distances.
Physical Characteristics:
- Large size with 4-inch wingspan
- Dark patches at base of hindwings
- Red-brown body coloration
- Clear wings with minimal other markings
Black Saddlebags are wanderers that don’t establish fixed territories like many other species. Instead, they patrol large areas and can often be found far from water sources. This behavior makes them one of the most likely dragonflies to be encountered in unexpected locations.
Migration Patterns: These dragonflies are partial migrants, with some populations moving south during autumn months. They’re often seen flying in loose groups during migration periods, making them excellent subjects for behavioral observation.
Red Saddlebags (Tramea onusta)
Red Saddlebags closely resemble their black cousins but display distinctive red patches at the base of their hindwings. These colorful markings make them unmistakable in the field, especially when combined with their characteristic flight patterns.
Key Differences from Black Saddlebags:
- Red (not black) patches at hindwing bases
- Slightly smaller average size
- More vibrant red body coloration
- Similar wandering behavior patterns
Red Saddlebags prefer warmer climates and are more common in southern Illinois, though they can be found throughout the state during peak summer months. They’re often associated with larger water bodies and can be seen patrolling considerable distances from shore.
Seasonal Patterns: These dragonflies typically appear later in the season than Black Saddlebags, with peak abundance occurring in late summer and early fall. Their preference for warm weather makes them excellent indicators of seasonal changes.
Halloween Pennant (Celithemis eponina)
The Halloween Pennant’s orange and black coloration perfectly matches its festive name. These small dragonflies are among the most colorful species in Illinois, with males displaying vibrant orange wings marked with distinctive black bands.
Colorful Identification:
- Males: Bright orange wings with black bands
- Females: Similar pattern but with yellow tinge
- Small size (1.5-2 inches)
- Distinctive pennant-like wing shape
Halloween Pennants are weak fliers that prefer sheltered waters with abundant vegetation. They’re commonly found in marshes, swamps, and heavily vegetated pond margins. Their preference for perching on tall grasses and reeds makes them relatively easy to approach for close observation.
Habitat Specialization: These dragonflies are indicators of healthy wetland ecosystems, as they require specific vegetation types for both hunting and reproduction. Their presence often signals high-quality aquatic habitats.
Calico Pennant (Celithemis elisa)
The Calico Pennant displays one of the most intricate wing patterns among Illinois dragonflies. The complex network of dark markings resembles calico fabric, giving this species its distinctive common name.
Pattern Recognition:
- Intricate network of dark markings on clear wings
- Males: Red body with elaborate wing patterns
- Females: Yellow-brown body with similar wing markings
- Small, delicate build
Calico Pennants are habitat specialists that prefer acidic waters with sphagnum moss and other specialized vegetation. They’re more common in northern Illinois, where suitable bog and fen habitats are more prevalent.
Conservation Status: These dragonflies are considered indicators of pristine wetland conditions, as they’re sensitive to water quality changes and habitat disturbance. Their presence often indicates ecologically significant wetlands.
Four-spotted Pennant (Brachymesia gravida)
The Four-spotted Pennant is one of Illinois’s smallest dragonflies, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in distinctive markings. The four prominent spots on its wings make identification straightforward, even for beginning dragonfly enthusiasts.
Identifying Features:
- Four distinct dark spots on wings
- Small size (1-1.5 inches)
- Brown and yellow body coloration
- Relatively broad wings for body size
Four-spotted Pennants prefer shallow, weedy waters where they can hunt small insects effectively. They’re often found in temporary pools, shallow marsh edges, and farm ponds with extensive vegetation.
Behavioral Adaptations: These tiny dragonflies are excellent at exploiting temporary water sources, often being the first species to colonize new wetland habitats. Their small size and efficient reproduction make them successful pioneers.
Slaty Skimmer (Libellula incesta)
The Slaty Skimmer’s name reflects its distinctive blue-gray coloration, which resembles the color of slate rock. These medium-sized dragonflies are among the most elegant species in Illinois, with males displaying a subtle beauty that’s often overlooked.
Subtle Beauty:
- Males: Uniform blue-gray coloration
- Females: Brown with yellow markings
- Clear wings without prominent markings
- Graceful flight patterns
Slaty Skimmers prefer rocky or gravelly shorelines around lakes and large ponds. They’re less common than many other skimmer species but can be locally abundant in suitable habitats. Their preference for clear, deeper waters makes them indicators of good water quality.
Habitat Requirements: These dragonflies are associated with high-quality aquatic habitats and are sensitive to pollution and habitat degradation. Their presence often indicates healthy aquatic ecosystems.
Great Blue Skimmer (Libellula vibrans)
The Great Blue Skimmer represents the pinnacle of dragonfly elegance in Illinois. Males display a stunning powder blue coloration that rivals any butterfly, while their impressive size commands attention wherever they appear.
Impressive Characteristics:
- Large size with 3.5-4 inch wingspan
- Males: Brilliant powder blue body
- Females: Brown with yellow markings
- Clear wings with subtle blue tinting
Great Blue Skimmers are among the latest emerging species in Illinois, with peak abundance occurring in midsummer. They prefer large, open water bodies with minimal vegetation, making them common around lakes and large ponds.
Thermal Regulation: The blue coloration in males serves as natural sunscreen, reflecting excess heat during hot summer days. This adaptation allows them to remain active during periods when other species seek shade.
Eastern Amberwing (Perithemis tenera)
The Eastern Amberwing holds the distinction of being Illinois’s smallest dragonfly, with males barely reaching 1.5 inches in length. Despite their diminutive size, these amber-colored jewels are among the most charming species in the state.
Miniature Perfection:
- Tiny size (1-1.5 inches)
- Males: Amber-colored wings and body
- Females: Clear wings with spotted patterns
- Delicate, almost fairy-like appearance
Eastern Amberwings prefer shallow, weedy waters where they can hunt tiny insects effectively. They’re commonly found in marsh edges, farm ponds, and temporary pools. Their small size and preference for vegetation make them easy to overlook, but patient observers are rewarded with delightful behavior displays.
Unique Behaviors: These tiny dragonflies are excellent hoverers, often remaining motionless for extended periods while hunting. Their small size allows them to exploit micro-habitats unavailable to larger species.
Dot-tailed Whiteface (Leucorrhinia intacta)
The Dot-tailed Whiteface is instantly recognizable by its distinctive white face and the characteristic black dot at the tip of its abdomen. These small dragonflies are among the most precisely marked species in Illinois.
Distinctive Markings:
- Bright white face (both sexes)
- Black dot at tip of abdomen
- Dark body with yellow side markings
- Small size with compact build
Dot-tailed Whitefaces are habitat specialists that prefer bog and fen environments with acidic water conditions. They’re more common in northern Illinois, where suitable habitats are more prevalent. Their specific habitat requirements make them excellent indicators of rare wetland types.
Ecological Significance: These dragonflies are associated with some of Illinois’s most threatened wetland habitats, making their conservation particularly important for maintaining biodiversity.
Spangled Skimmer (Libellula cyanea)
The Spangled Skimmer displays one of the most complex color patterns among Illinois dragonflies. The intricate combination of blue, green, and purple hues creates an almost iridescent appearance that changes with viewing angle and lighting conditions.
Iridescent Beauty:
- Males: Blue-green body with purple highlights
- Females: Brown with yellow markings
- Clear wings with subtle color tinting
- Medium size with robust build
Spangled Skimmers prefer large water bodies with open areas for patrolling. They’re territorial insects that defend prime hunting grounds along shorelines. Their preference for clear, deeper waters makes them less common than some other skimmer species.
Color Variations: The spangled appearance comes from microscopic structures in their exoskeleton that create iridescent effects. This structural coloration can appear different under various lighting conditions, making field identification challenging for beginners.
Golden-winged Skimmer (Libellula auripennis)
The Golden-winged Skimmer showcases nature’s artistry with wings that display a distinctive golden-amber coloration. These medium-sized dragonflies are among the most beautiful species in Illinois, particularly when backlit by afternoon sunlight.
Golden Characteristics:
- Distinctive golden-amber wing coloration
- Males: Dark body with metallic highlights
- Females: Brown body with yellow markings
- Clear golden tinting most pronounced in males
Golden-winged Skimmers are habitat generalists that adapt well to various water types. They’re commonly found around lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams throughout Illinois. Their adaptability has made them successful in both natural and artificial habitats.
Photographic Opportunities: The golden wing coloration makes these dragonflies exceptional subjects for photography, especially during golden hour lighting conditions. Their willingness to return to preferred perches makes them accessible to photographers.
Prince Baskettail (Epitheca princeps)
The Prince Baskettail represents the aristocracy of Illinois dragonflies, with males displaying regal bronze-green coloration and impressive size. These early-season emergers are among the first dragonflies to appear each spring.
Regal Appearance:
- Large size with 3-4 inch wingspan
- Bronze-green metallic coloration
- Clear wings with minimal markings
- Robust build with powerful flight
Prince Baskettails prefer flowing water habitats, making them more common along rivers and streams than around ponds and lakes. They’re strong fliers that patrol considerable territories, often venturing far from water sources during hunting expeditions.
Seasonal Timing: These dragonflies emerge earlier than most species, with peak abundance occurring in late spring and early summer. Their early emergence makes them important predators during the initial stages of the aquatic insect emergence cycle.
Blue-faced Darner (Coryphaeschna adnexa)
The Blue-faced Darner combines impressive size with distinctive facial coloration that makes identification straightforward. These large darners are among the most striking species in Illinois, with bright blue faces contrasting beautifully with their dark bodies.
Distinctive Features:
- Bright blue face (both sexes)
- Large size (3+ inches)
- Dark body with green and blue markings
- Clear wings with minimal coloration
Blue-faced Darners are crepuscular hunters that become most active during twilight hours. They’re often seen patrolling large territories around lakes and ponds, where they hunt other flying insects with remarkable efficiency.
Twilight Behavior: These darners are most active during the last hour before sunset, when they emerge to hunt in the calm air conditions. Their large size and powerful flight make them formidable predators capable of catching large prey.
Shadow Darner (Aeshna umbrosa)
The Shadow Darner represents the mysterious side of Illinois dragonflies, with males displaying dark coloration that makes them blend seamlessly with shadows and vegetation. These large darners are among the most elusive species in the state.
Shadowy Characteristics:
- Dark brown to black body coloration
- Large size with impressive wingspan
- Subtle blue and green markings
- Clear wings with brown tinting
Shadow Darners prefer heavily wooded areas around streams and ponds, where their dark coloration provides excellent camouflage. They’re less territorial than many other darner species, often hunting in loose groups during peak activity periods.
Habitat Preferences: These darners are associated with forested wetlands and are less common in open habitats. Their preference for shaded areas makes them more challenging to observe than their more conspicuous relatives.
Best Places to Find Illinois Dragonflies
Illinois offers numerous excellent locations for dragonfly observation, each with its unique species composition and seasonal patterns. Understanding where and when to look dramatically increases your chances of successful encounters.
Top Dragonfly Hotspots:
Northern Illinois:
- Chain O’ Lakes State Park: Excellent diversity with over 15 species
- Moraine Hills State Park: Prairie potholes attract numerous species
- Volo Bog State Natural Area: Specialized species in unique habitat
Central Illinois:
- Clinton Lake State Recreation Area: Large water body with diverse shoreline
- Weldon Springs State Park: Multiple habitat types in compact area
- Sand Ridge State Forest: Unusual sand prairie wetlands
Southern Illinois:
- Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge: Extensive wetland systems
- Cache River State Natural Area: Swamp and bottomland species
- Rend Lake: Large water body with multiple habitat zones
Urban Opportunities: Many Chicago-area forest preserves offer excellent dragonfly viewing, including Busse Woods, Waterfall Glen, and the Morton Arboretum. These locations provide accessible opportunities for urban naturalists.
Seasonal Viewing Guide
Understanding seasonal patterns dramatically improves dragonfly observation success. Illinois species emerge in predictable waves throughout the growing season, with each period offering unique opportunities.
Spring Emergence (April-May):
- Prince Baskettail: First species to emerge
- Common Green Darner: Early migrants arrive
- Blue-faced Darner: Begins activity in wooded areas
Early Summer Peak (June-July):
- Maximum species diversity
- All skimmer species active
- Peak breeding activity for most species
Late Summer (August-September):
- Saddlebags species most abundant
- Halloween Pennant reaches peak numbers
- Migration activity begins
Fall Patterns (September-October):
- Late-emerging species appear
- Migration activity intensifies
- Final reproductive efforts
Conservation and Threats
Illinois dragonflies face numerous challenges in the modern landscape, from habitat loss to climate change. Understanding these threats helps inform conservation efforts and guides habitat management decisions.
Primary Threats:
- Wetland loss and fragmentation
- Water quality degradation
- Invasive species competition
- Climate change impacts
Conservation Opportunities:
- Wetland restoration projects
- Pollinator habitat initiatives
- Citizen science participation
- Urban habitat creation
How You Can Help:
- Support wetland conservation organizations
- Participate in dragonfly monitoring programs
- Create pollinator gardens with water features
- Report rare species sightings to state databases
Photography and Observation Tips
Successful dragonfly photography requires understanding both equipment needs and insect behavior. These aerial predators present unique challenges that reward patient, knowledgeable observers.
Equipment Essentials:
- Macro lens or telephoto with close-focusing capability
- Tripod for stability during long observation sessions
- Polarizing filter to reduce water surface glare
- Field guide for accurate identification
Behavioral Insights:
- Most species return to preferred perches repeatedly
- Early morning offers best photographic light
- Territorial males are most predictable
- Approach slowly from behind preferred perches
Ethical Considerations:
- Maintain safe distances from nesting areas
- Avoid disturbing roosting sites
- Never handle dragonflies unnecessarily
- Respect private property and conservation areas
Conclusion
Illinois’s diverse dragonfly fauna represents one of the state’s most underappreciated natural treasures. From the mighty Common Green Darner to the delicate Eastern Amberwing, these aerial predators showcase evolution’s creativity in adapting to aquatic environments. Understanding their identification, behavior, and habitat requirements opens doors to a fascinating world of natural history that exists in virtually every Illinois county.
Whether you’re a beginning naturalist or an experienced observer, Illinois dragonflies offer endless opportunities for discovery. Their dependence on aquatic habitats makes them excellent indicators of ecosystem health, while their spectacular aerial displays provide entertainment that rivals any nature documentary. By learning to identify and appreciate these remarkable insects, we develop deeper connections to the natural world and become better stewards of the wetland habitats they depend upon.
The next time you find yourself near a pond, marsh, or stream in Illinois, take a moment to watch for these incredible aerial acrobats. You might just discover that some of nature’s most spectacular performances are happening right in your own backyard.
