Vagrant emperor

Introduction: Vagrant Emperors (Anax ephippiger) are migrants with travelling long distances an intricate part of their life cycle. They are the smallest Anax and records have been consistent with their appearance in the rainy season.

Distribution: Scattered locations along the Kunene, Kavango Rivers, Caprivi Strip, Etosha National Park, Kaokoland, northern, central and southern regions of the country including Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, Tsumkwe and Kaudom Game Park.

Colouration: Sand-coloured or greenish to brown. A feature of fully coloured males is a blue 'saddle' on the abdomen (ephippiger).

Breeding: Oviposits in fresh waters and breeds in temporary pools. Eggs are laid into plant material or wet soil.

Flight season: Throughout the year.

Max size: 60 to 70mm.

Conservation: Not threatened.