Creature Feature Encyclopedia: Insecta

Elisa Skimmer Celithemis elisa Length: 1.125-1.375" (29-35 mm) Wingspan: 2.25-2.375" (56-60 mm) Habitat: shallow bays, streams and ponds

This insect's bright red abdomen makes it easy to spot in its green environment. Adults are active from April to October, when they mate and lay eggs. The nymphs spend the fall and winter in the water before emerging the following spring as adults. Did you know that dragonflies existed even before dinosaurs? It's true. They were as big as a model plane, with a wingspan of two feet!

~Salamander Rain: A Lake and Pond Journal © 2001