Rufous Marsh Glider Rhodothemis rufa
(c) Navaneeth Sini George, some rights reserved (CC BY)
OrderDragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata)
FamilySkimmers (Libellulidae)
GenusRhodothemis (Rhodothemis)
The name gives away one of its most distinctive features: spiny legs that make it look like a tiny armored fighter. Paired with a stunning rufous (reddish-brown) body, these dragonflies are easy to spot as they glide gracefully over Asian wetlands. They're widespread across many Asian countries, making them a common sight for anyone spending time near water in the region.
That combination of spines and color isn't just for showβthe spiny legs help them snag flying insects mid-air.
Think you can identify this one in the wild?
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