Eastern Amberwing
Perithemis tenera
Eastern Amberwings are tiny orange-winged dragonflies found around Florida ponds, canals, wetlands, and slow water.
Eastern Amberwings thrive around sunny freshwater edges with emergent vegetation. Males defend small territories from exposed twigs and stems near the water.
Adults capture mosquitoes, midges, and other small insects in flight. The aquatic nymphs live among submerged plants and organic debris.
Habitat:
Lakes and Ponds, Freshwater Wetlands, Canals and Ditches, Rivers and Springs
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
Adults eat mosquitoes, gnats, midges, and other tiny flying insects. Nymphs prey on aquatic insect larvae and small invertebrates.
Behavior:
Males return repeatedly to the same low perch, making quick flights to chase rivals or capture prey. Females visit the water to lay eggs.
Day
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Sunny warm days from spring through fall around pond edges, canals, and marsh vegetation.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Common and widespread where clean freshwater and vegetated shorelines remain available.
Safety Level:
Low Risk
Safety Information:
Dragonflies do not sting and are harmless when left alone. Avoid handling their delicate wings.
Benefits to Property:
Adults consume nuisance flying insects, while nymphs help balance aquatic insect populations.
Property Concerns:
They cause no damage. Broad-spectrum insecticides and removal of all shoreline vegetation reduce habitat.
Fun Fact:
Female Eastern Amberwings mimic the color pattern of small wasps, which may discourage predators.
Wildlife Laws:
No special Florida listing applies. Protected-area rules may prohibit collection, and pesticide applications must follow the product label.
Identification:
Males have amber-orange wings and a reddish-orange abdomen. Females have clearer wings with bold brown patches and a darker patterned body. Both are unusually small for dragonflies.
Credits:
Facts: authoritative species reference. Images: primary and secondary, Wikimedia Commons.