Green Nature

Chalk-fronted Corporal

picture of a male chalk-fronted corporal dragonfly

Other than the white, or chalky color on the top of the abdomen, the mature Chalk-fronted Corporal (Ladona julia) is a rather dull looking dragonfly.

They are one of three Corporal species (genus Ladona) found in the United States, with a habitat limited to ponds and lakes in Northern states.

Juveniles look different, having a brown abdomen with a dark stripe running down its middle. Unless the dragonfly in the picture is very old and faded, it shows a female. The male has two prominent white stripes on the top of the thorax.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels