genus: Boyeria

Spotted Darners

This small genus contains two species.  Both are medium to large with rather slender streamlined bodies.  Both species have a brown robust thorax with two diagnostic yellow spots on each side.  The abdomen is brown, but may show small yellow dots on the sides.  Wings often tinted brown.  Eyes color varies between brown to dark green.

In both species the female is similar in appearance.  Females  in wet wood at or below water level.  Like the Harlequin Darner, they have been noted to land on people while standing in the water.

Spotted Darners can be seen patrolling low along the waters surface inspecting every little nook and cranny along the way.  They prefer shady edges of streams and rivers with little or no current.