20-11-2016 PYAY, MYANMAR - GREEN MARSH HAWK DRAGONFLY (Orthetrum sabina)

It is a medium-sized dragonfly with a wingspan of 60-85mm. Adults are greyish to greenish yellow with black and pale markings and green eyes. Its abdomen is greenish-yellow, marked with black. It is very similar to Orthetrum serapia in appearance, with both species appearing in northern Australia. Pale markings on segment four of the abdomen do not extend into the posterior section when viewed from above on Orthetrum sabina. Females are similar to males in shape, colour and size; differing only in sexual characteristics. This dragonfly perches motionless on shrubs and dry twigs for long periods. It preys voraciously on smaller butterflies and dragonflies.

Orthetrum sabina (Slender Skimmer or Green Mash Hawk) has one of the largest geographical ranges of all species found in Europe: it can be found in south-east Europe, north Africa and most of subtropical and tropical Asia, all the way to Australia and Micronesia.

It is a medium-sized dragonfly with a wingspan of 60-85mm. Adults are greyish to greenish yellow with black and pale markings and green eyes. Its abdomen is greenish-yellow, marked with black. It is very similar to Orthetrum serapia in appearance, with both species appearing in northern Australia. Pale markings on segment four of the abdomen do not extend into the posterior section when viewed from above on Orthetrum sabina. Females are similar to males in shape, colour and size; differing only in sexual characteristics. This dragonfly perches motionless on shrubs and dry twigs for long periods. It preys voraciously on smaller butterflies and dragonflies.

Orthetrum sabina (Slender Skimmer or Green Mash Hawk) has one of the largest geographical ranges of all species found in Europe: it can be found in south-east Europe, north Africa and most of subtropical and tropical Asia, all the way to Australia and Micronesia.

Slender Skimmer (Orthetrum sabina), also known as the Green Marsh Hawk, is a captivating species of dragonfly in the family Libellulidae. 

Description: The Slender Skimmer has a medium-sized body with a wingspan ranging from 60 to 85 mm. Its coloration varies from grayish to greenish-yellow, adorned with black and pale markings. The striking green eyes add to its allure. Notably, it closely resembles another species, Orthetrum serapia, especially in northern Australia. However, one distinguishing feature is that the pale markings on segment four of the abdomen do not extend into the posterior section when viewed from above in Orthetrum sabina.

Habitat and Behavior: Slender Skimmers are often seen perching motionless on shrubs and dry twigs. During these moments, they actively hunt smaller butterflies and other dragonflies. Imagine encountering this poised creature in its natural habitat!

Orthetrum sabina’s presence adds to the rich biodiversity of our planet, and your passion for wildlife photography and conservation efforts is commendable! Keep capturing the beauty of nature and inspiring others to protect our environment.