Red Damsels - Amphiagrion
 This large family is represented in North
America by two species that some consider co-specific. These are
one of our smallest damselflies. They
are distinctive in the field
with their black and red coloration, unmarked thorax, small size, and
relatively short, thick abdomen. The eyes are a rusty brown to red
and lacks postocular spots.
The Eastern (Amphiagrion
saucium) and the Western (Amphiagrion abbreviatum) are similar in
appearance but may be differentiated by size and examination of the male
terminal appendages. Some authorities consider them to be
races of the same species and intergrades do occur in the middle of the country.
Red Damsels are perchers and fly low among grassy areas. They are seldom
seen flying over open water.
They are habitat specific and prefer springs and seepage
areas around ponds, streams, or on borders of bogs.
|