103. Rhyothemis phyllis (Sulzer, 1776)

Number: 103

Family: Libellulidae

Genus: Rhyothemis

Species: Rhyothemis phyllis

Common name(s): Common Plain Skimmer, Batik Glider, Yellow-barred Flutterer

Thai name(s): แมลงปอบ้านไร่ปีกทอง

Habitat: Exposed (but mostly tree-lined) marshland, ponds and lakes (uplands & lowlands)

Province(s) sighted: Widespread (Khon Kaen); Nam Nao NP/environs (Petchabun); Widespread (Chiang Mai); Khao Yai (Nakhorn Ratchasima); Khao Kitchakut (Chantaburi); small pond, Kabin Buri;  Koh Chang (Trat).

Sightings (by me): Common and widespread
In flight (that I have seen): April-December

Species easily confused with: Rhyothemis variegata variegata

A beautiful Libellulidae I see on regular occasions is Rhyothemis phyllis phyllis. It is very close to Rhyothemis variegata (see earlier entry on my blog) and are often seen together. It flutters in the breeze and can be easily be mistaken for a butterfly. They also tend to fly for long periods of time. 

The male

The male is very similar to the male of Rhyothemis variegata, but has only one black marking on each wing, whereas Rhyothemis variegata has many more small marks. Otherwise, it is very similar.

The female

The female is similar to the male, but the abdomen is more robust. The females are also less common than the males, though can often be seen - without ever landing! I will post more detailed wing shots when I get them.