46. Brachydiplax chalybea chalybea (Brauer, 1868)

Number: 46

Family: Libellulidae

Genus: Brachydiplax

Species: Brachydiplax chalybea chalybea

Common name(s): Greater Grey Skimmer, Yellow Patch Lieutenant, 

Blue Dasher, Rufous-backed Marsh Hawk 

Thai name(s): แมลงปอบ้านสีตะกั่วทุ่งนา

Habitat: Exposed ditches, drains, ponds and lakes (uplands & lowlands)
Province(s) sighted: Widespread (Khon Kaen); Nam Nao NP/environs (Petchabun);  Phu Rua environs (Loei); Widespread (Chiang Mai); Khao Yai (Nakhorn Ratchasima); Khao Soi Dao (Chantaburi); Kabin Buri; large lagoon (Prachaub Khiri Khan); Undon Thani
Sightings (by me): Extremely common
In flight: March-December (probably all year)

Another handsome dragonfly that is part of the Brachydiplax genus is the common Brachydiplax chalybea chalybea. This species is widespread and can be seen at most ponds, pools and lakes that have tall reeds at the edge. They are also very small in terms of dragonflies, but the colours are amazing.

The male

The male has a striking blue and orange thorax, backed by a blue abdomen with black segments towards the end. It is a truly magnificent dragonfly and one you can see almost anywhere in the lowlands and many upland places too. Be aware though, as they are easily frightened and fly away at the slightest thing. This one is obelisking (doing a kind of handstand), in order to minimize the amount of sun on its body. 

The young male ...

Not commonly seen at this stage.  He is very orange indeed!

The female

Oddly enough, even though the male is very common, the female is not so. Or, at least, it is seldom seen. I have spotted the female only on a few occasions, often hiding away in the trees and away from the frisky males and only come down to the water's edge briefly. As far as I am aware, they stay well away from the water and only become visible when they are ready to copulate.