Quick Identification Guide

 
Welcome to my quick identification guide of the Black Darter. These graphics are meant as a guide to the key identifying features of both the male and the female dragonflies.

The text section has been kindly written and supplied by Mr Ken Crick.

The male Black Darter

This small darter is almost entirely black along its upper surface. The central black band on the thorax flank encloses three yellow spots. There are yellow markings on the flanks of the thorax and abdomen. Abdominal segments 3 to 5 contract and expand to form a club-like appearance. As the males age the yellow markings darken, very old males being all black.

The female Black Darter

Females are predominantly yellow with a black under body. The upper surface of the thorax is centrally marked with a black isosceles triangle, the base of which is just behind the eyes. The base of the each wing has a small area suffused with saffron.