Dragonfly (Globe Skimmer)

About

The globe skimmer, also known as the wandering glider (Pantala flavescens), is a small dragonfly renowned for its incredible migratory feats. It is one of the most widespread dragonfly species, found on every continent except Antarctica. This dragonfly measures up to 4.5 cm in length and has a wingspan of 7.2 to 8.4 cm. Its body is typically yellow to golden with a reddish head, though color variations exist depending on the location. The globe skimmer is a member of the Libellulidae family, which includes many migratory species. The globe skimmer completes an annual multigenerational migration of approximately 14,000 to 18,000 km, one of the longest known insect migrations. It crosses vast bodies of water, reaching remote islands like Easter Island. The species uses wind and rain fronts to facilitate its journey, breeding in temporary pools of water. The life cycle from egg to adult can be completed in about 38 to 65 days, allowing for rapid reproduction in ephemeral habitats. Globe skimmers are predatory, feeding on small insects as adults and aquatic invertebrates as larvae. Their remarkable adaptability and migratory abilities make them a fascinating subject of study.