genus: Anax

Four species occur in North America.  They are among our largest dragonflies.  They have a heavy, unmarked green thorax without stripes.  The abdomens are mostly a patterned blue with the exception of the Comet Darner which displays a bright red abdomen.  Wings may be tinted amber and reach a span of almost 12 cm.  Eyes may be greenish-yellow or blue depending upon the species and sex.

Green Darners prefer still water habitats so you can observe them flying over ponds, lakes, slow streams and nearby fields.

The Common Green Darner is one of the first dragonflies to emerge each year and one of the last you see in the fall. They have been known to  migrate long distances in the spring and fall.