Violet Dropwing Trithemis annulata
(c) Robert Taylor, some rights reserved (CC BY)
OrderDragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata)
FamilySkimmers (Libellulidae)
GenusDropwings (Trithemis)
Males of this African and Middle Eastern dragonfly are stunningly violet-red with matching veins in their wings, while females are dull yellow and brownβcomplete opposites in a remarkable display of sexual dimorphism. Both share brilliant red eyes that make them instantly recognizable. The "dropwing" part of the name comes from a characteristic behavior: immediately after landing, they lower their wings downward, a distinctive pose that signals they've found a perch.
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