American Emerald Dragonfly
| More Dragonfly Resources Emerald Dragonflies Dragonfly Pictures |
The American Emerald (Cordulia shurtleffii), one of three globally identified Cordulia species, is the sole representative of the genus in the United States.
The term American could easily refer to its new world, North American status given the fact that its range extends from southern areas of Canada into northern areas of the United States.
American Emeralds prefer lake and bog habitats near wooded or forested areas.
Often given the label as an early bird dragonfly, they can be seen flying from early spring through late summer, depending on altitude. They adapt to both valley and mountain environment.
The top picture show a newly emerged American Emerald with brown eyes. It takes a few days for the eyes to turn their characteristic green color, as depicted on the second picture.
© 2006-2011 Patricia A. Michaels