Nanothemis bella (Elfin Skimmer)The continent’s smallest dragonfly is known from mostly gramminoid fens in various biophysical regions. The absence of reports from the northeastern highlands is a bit surprising. It can be abundant at one site and yet rare at another. Although there is some evidence this species may tolerate non-pristine habitats, this does not appear to be the case in Vermont, where undisturbed fens seem to be its preference. At least four of its sites are protected conservation lands. This species has among the shortest known flight periods of any regularly occurring Vermont Anisoptera species.

Conservation Status

State: S3
Global: G5

Flight Period

May 26 – July 11

More Information

Vermont Distribution