Violet dropwing

Introduction: The sparking contrasting colours of the Violet Dropwing (Trithemis annulata) make it one of the easier dragonflies to identify. Dams, lakes, large rivers and a number of temporary or artificial water bodies support this species. Annulus means 'small ring' referring to the fine abdominal horizontal stripes.

Distribution: Widespread over Namibia including Epupa Falls, Kunene River, Kavango River region, Rundu, Caprivi Strip, Etosha National Park, Damaraland, Windhoek, Okahandja, central, northern and southern regions including the Fish River Canyon.

Colouration: Bright violet pruinosity on the thorax with the abdominal colouration being a reddish-violet which contrasts with their yellow wing spots on the bases of the hindwing. Eyes and frons are violet. Females are olive-brown with no markings on the abdomen.

Breeding: Their ability for rapid larval development allows them to breed in temporary waters with more than 1 generation being produced each year.

Flight season: Throughout the year mainly from November to April.

Conservation: Not threatened.