Red veined dropwing

Introduction: Red-veined Dropwings (Trithemis arteriosa) are similar in size colouration to Monard's Dropwing. Arteria is Latin for 'blood vessel or vein' and osa 'having plenty of''. Combined they describe this species perfectly. They are usually found in rivers with sections of reeds, wetlands below dams and some temporary waters.

Distribution: Epupa Falls, Kunene River, Rundu, Caprivi Strip, Damaraland, Otavi Mountains, Oanab Dam central, southern Namibia.

Colouration: Bright red abdomen with a black underside and other markings reaching the dorsal. The upperparts of the thorax are purplish-red. The wing veins are bright red especially in flight.

Breeding: Females have to produce eggs during the entire lifetime and produce as many eggs as possible.

Flight season: Throughout the year, especially between November and April.

Conservation: Not threatened.