Slender bottletail

Introduction: The unique bulbous shape of the Slender Bottletail (Olpogastra iugubris) is highlighted its general body colour. The abdomen is longer than the wings. They can be observed in large moving bodies of water, usually in thick vegetation.

Distribution: Widespread in the Zambezi, Kwando, Kavango and Kunene Rivers. Also observed at the Tsaobis and Swakop River valley and the Von Bach Dam near Okahandja.

Colouration: Yellow and black body with green-black markings on the thorax. The eyes are metallic-green.

Breeding: Males perch in vegetation waiting for unsuspecting females.

Flight season: Mainly the rainy season but most records are from November to April or June and July.

Max size: 40mm.

Conservation: Not threatened.