Black Setwing

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The Setwings (Dythemis) are primarily a tropical dragonfly genus, with three different species, the Black Setwing (Dythemis nigrescens), Checkered Setwing (Dythemis fugax) and the Swift Setwing (Dythemis velox) commonly found along the Lower Rio Grande Valley.

The top picture probably shows a female Black Setwing, in a typical setwing pose, with wings forward, looking ready for takeoff.

Black and Swift Setwings share many similar physical characteristics, including dark wingtips. The number of spots on the top of the abdomen serves as a valuable field identification guide, with Swift Setwings having the lesser amount of spots.

The brown thorax is typical for a Swift Setwing and the female Black Setwing. Mature male Black Setwings have a fairly consistent black or dark abdomen and thorax.

© 2008. Patricia A. Michaels