Little skimmer

Introduction: Little Skimmer (Orthetrum abbotti) are the smallest species of this genus. Most Namibian observations have been recorded near springs with lush to overgrown vegetation common. They were named after Dr William Louis Abbott (1866-1948) who collected a male and female on an expedition at Kilimanjaro.

Distribution: Ongongo Falls near Sesfontein, Palmwag, Otavi Mountains, Waterberg, Von Bach Dam near Okahandja.

Colouration: Yellow thorax in females, yellow ground colour, blue pruinosity.

Breeding: Females touch the water with a series of dips to lay eggs.

Flight season: October to February.

Max size: 38mm.

Conservation: Not threatened.