Crimson-Tailed Marsh Hawk (Orthetrum pruinosum) lives in freshwater habitats across Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia. Its conservation status is Least Concern.
Fascinating facts about the Crimson-Tailed Marsh Hawk
- The crimson-tailed marsh hawk spans a vast stretch of South and East Asia, reaching from the western coast of India across the continent to Japan and then turning southward to Java and the Sunda Islands. This extensive distribution classifies it as a widespread species throughout the region. Its presence is tied to freshwater habitats, where it breeds in ponds, lakes and sluggish streams, taking advantage of the still water for egg laying and larval development.
- Molecular phylogenetic analysis has revealed that the crimson-tailed marsh hawk, despite its outward similarity to other Orthetrum species, is a cryptic species. It belongs to the family Libellulidae.
- Taxonomists recognise three subspecies of the crimson-tailed marsh hawk. O. p. neglectum occupies mainland Asia, O. p. schneideri is found on the Malay Peninsula and Borneo, and O. p. clelia inhabits the Philippines and Taiwan.
- When male crimson-tailed marsh hawks first emerge they display a vivid red abdomen that is indistinguishable from the similar Orthetrum chrysis. This bright colour is only temporary; as the dragonfly ages the abdomen loses its red hue and gradually assumes the purple tone of the adult. The change coincides with the development of the species' characteristic dark thorax and subtle purple frosted sheen, completing its mature appearance.
Sources
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At a glance
RangeSub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia
HabitatFreshwater habitats
DietInsects and larvae
About the Crimson-Tailed Marsh Hawk
As the sun rises over the marshy wetlands, the Crimson-Tailed Marsh Hawk emerges, its iridescent wings beating with a hypnotic rhythm as it dances through the air, a mesmerizing spectacle of agility and precision. With its striking crimson tail glowing like a fiery ember, this majestic dragonfly navigates the dense vegetation with ease, its large, piercing eyes scanning the surroundings for potential prey. As it flits from perch to perch, its delicate, almost ethereal form belies a formidable hunting prowess, making it a remarkable and captivating creature to behold.
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