Spot-winged Meadowhawk
Sympetrum signiferum Cannings and Garrison, 1991
(sym•PET•rum sig•KNEE•for•um)
Quick Identification Tips
Description & Range
Known, in the United States from just a few canyons in southeast Arizona. In Mexico it ranges throughout the Sierra Nevada Occidental with records as far south as Durango and Nayarit.
Similar Species
Genetically and morphologically this species is closest to Sympetrum vicinum. It does have a striking similarity to the Japanese species Sympetrum croceolum.
Natural History
In the sky islands of southeastern Arizon, this species is found in slow water and ponds associated with small perennial streams.
Acknowledgments
Special thanks to Doug Danforth, Sandy Upson, and Rich Bailowitz who took the time to show me this beautiful species in Arizona, October 2014.
Hind wing:
Flight season: