Red groundling

Introduction: Red Groundlings (Brachythemis lacustris) only occur at rivers and not 'pertaining to lakes' as the Latin lacustris refers. Males and females congregate together near river banks. The abdomen is short and stout.

Distribution: Epupa Falls, Kunene River, Rundu, Kavango River, Kwando River and the Caprivi Strip.

Colouration: Bright red body and amber wing bases.

Breeding: Reproductive behaviour begins in the late afternoon. Once the males have instigated their territorial behaviour at breeding sites with floating or emerging plants, the females cross the males territory. A courtship display follows.

Flight season: Throughout the year.

Conservation: Not threatened.