Eastern Pondhawk

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When people think of pondhawks (Erythemis), the The Eastern Pondhawk and the Western Pondhawk, typically serve as the defining species.

Both share the physical traits of blue mature males and green mature females. Both are common visitors to clean, slow moving or still water areas.

The Eastern Pondhawk ranges throughout the Eastern part of the United States, west through Texas. The Western Pondhawk normally appears in the remaining areas of the West.

The top picture shows the male Eastern Pondhawk, at an angle that does not show the green nose. Apart from the white cerci (tip of abdomen), is almost indistinguishable from the male Western Pondhawk.

The bottom picture shows the female Eastern Pondhawk. The stripes on the abdomen give it a distinct look from the female Western Pondhawk.

© 2008. Patricia A. Michaels