Langer Blaupfeil
(Orthetrum trinacria)

The Long Skimmer is a very rare species of African origin. In Europe it only occurs sporadically in southern Iberia, on Sicily and on Sardinia (which is where we photographed the species). Its common name is very appropriate indeed; with a body length of 60 mm or more and its slender build, the species is unlikely to be confused with any other. Mature male Orthetrum trinacria sport a beautiful, deep-blue colour, while immature males are a pale yellow. Females are a deeper yellow colour and are most easily recognised by the very big, round base of the abdomen (which contrasts markedly with the long and thin rest of the abdominal segments).

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