Epaulette skimmer

Introduction: Epaulette Skimmers (Orthetrum chrysostigma) sport distinctive stripes on each side of the thorax, hence the epaulette connection. Chrysostigma refers to the 'golden' colour of the pterostigma, chrysos meaning 'gold' and stigma 'tattoo mark'. They inhabit desert, wetlands, well-vegetated water bodies and temporary waters.

Distribution: Common and widespread throughout most of Namibia less for the most of the east and southern Namib Desert. Observed at Epupa Falls, Etosha National Park, Kaokoland, Damaraland, Swakopmund, Windhoek, Rehoboth, Okahandja, Gobabis.

Colouration: Single cream-coloured stripe on each side of the thorax, brownish back colour, lightly patterned black.

Breeding: Females oviposit in thick vegetation, guarded by males hovering over open water. Larval development from egg to emergence is under 50 days, allowing for a number of generations to be produced each year.

Flight season: Throughout the year.

Max size: 40 to 45mm.

Conservation: Not threatened.