Golden-Winged Skimmer
Libellula auripennis
The Golden-Winged Skimmer is a large orange Florida dragonfly that patrols sunny ponds, marshes, and slow canals.
Golden-Winged Skimmers occur around open freshwater with emergent vegetation. Males defend shoreline territories from exposed stems, fences, and twigs.
The adults capture flying insects, while aquatic nymphs hunt beneath the water. A vegetated pond edge supports both life stages.
Habitat:
Freshwater Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds, Canals and Ditches
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
Adults eat mosquitoes, flies, midges, and other flying insects. Nymphs eat aquatic insect larvae, tadpoles, and other small animals.
Behavior:
Males repeatedly return to favored perches, launch after prey and rivals, and patrol low over the water.
Day
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Sunny warm days from spring through fall around ponds, marshes, ditches, and canal edges.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Common and widespread in Florida where clean freshwater and shoreline vegetation remain available.
Safety Level:
Low Risk
Safety Information:
Dragonflies do not sting and pose no danger. Avoid handling their delicate wings.
Benefits to Property:
Both adults and nymphs consume nuisance insects and help balance pond food webs.
Property Concerns:
They cause no property damage. Broad-spectrum insecticides and complete shoreline clearing reduce habitat.
Fun Fact:
The amber-washed wings can glow gold when the dragonfly is backlit by afternoon sun.
Wildlife Laws:
No special Florida listing applies. Collection may be restricted on protected lands, and pesticide labels must be followed.
Identification:
Mature males are bright orange-red with amber or orange tint across much of the wings. Females and young males are yellow-brown with a pale stripe along the upper abdomen.