84 Types of Dragonflies in Indiana
Yes, Indiana hosts over 100 dragonfly species, and the most commonly seen types include Common Green Darner, Blue Dasher, Eastern Pondhawk, Twelve-spotted Skimmer, and Widow Skimmer. These are widespread across the state and accessible near any calm freshwater habitat from late spring through early fall. If you're just starting, focus on these abundant types first, then expand to less common species once you recognize the key field marks. Look near ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams during warm months when activity peaks.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated July 2, 2026.
- 5
- species recorded
- June, July, August
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
84 types of dragonflies recorded in Indiana
84 dragonfly species have a verified observation record in Indiana across dragonflies and damselflies (order Odonata), each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The 50 most frequently recorded are shown below.
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Also recorded in Indiana
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Blue-tipped DancerArgia tibialis | Argia tibialis | 293 |
| 14 | Slaty SkimmerLibellula incesta | Libellula incesta | 278 |
| 15 | Double-striped BluetEnallagma basidens | Enallagma basidens | 234 |
| 16 | Twelve-spotted SkimmerLibellula pulchella | Libellula pulchella | 233 |
| 17 | American RubyspotHetaerina americana | Hetaerina americana | 203 |
| 18 | Powdered DancerArgia moesta | Argia moesta | 172 |
| 19 | Familiar BluetEnallagma civile | Enallagma civile | 158 |
| 20 | Variable DancerArgia fumipennis | Argia fumipennis | 154 |
| 21 | Black SaddlebagsTramea lacerata | Tramea lacerata | 147 |
| 22 | Skimming BluetEnallagma geminatum | Enallagma geminatum | 143 |
| 23 | Calico PennantCelithemis elisa | Celithemis elisa | 139 |
| 24 | Stream BluetEnallagma exsulans | Enallagma exsulans | 131 |
| 25 | Blue-faced MeadowhawkSympetrum ambiguum | Sympetrum ambiguum | 117 |
| 26 | Slender SpreadwingLestes rectangularis | Lestes rectangularis | 111 |
| 27 | Azure BluetEnallagma aspersum | Enallagma aspersum | 102 |
| 28 | Ruby MeadowhawkSympetrum rubicundulum | Sympetrum rubicundulum | 99 |
| 29 | Orange BluetEnallagma signatum | Enallagma signatum | 90 |
| 30 | Blue-ringed DancerArgia sedula | Argia sedula | 84 |
| 31 | Wandering GliderPantala flavescens | Pantala flavescens | 82 |
| 32 | Prince BaskettailEpitheca princeps | Epitheca princeps | 79 |
| 33 | Swamp DarnerEpiaeschna heros | Epiaeschna heros | 68 |
| 34 | Great Blue SkimmerLibellula vibrans | Libellula vibrans | 52 |
| 35 | Carolina SaddlebagsTramea carolina | Tramea carolina | 50 |
| 36 | Spangled SkimmerLibellula cyanea | Libellula cyanea | 46 |
| 37 | Slender BluetEnallagma traviatum | Enallagma traviatum | 45 |
| 38 | Common BaskettailEpitheca cynosura | Epitheca cynosura | 45 |
| 39 | Shadow DarnerAeshna umbrosa | Aeshna umbrosa | 42 |
| 40 | Dot-tailed WhitefaceLeucorrhinia intacta | Leucorrhinia intacta | 42 |
| 41 | Banded PennantCelithemis fasciata | Celithemis fasciata | 38 |
| 42 | Blue CorporalLadona deplanata | Ladona deplanata | 37 |
| 43 | Lancet ClubtailPhanogomphus exilis | Phanogomphus exilis | 37 |
| 44 | DragonhunterHagenius brevistylus | Hagenius brevistylus | 32 |
| 45 | Gray PetaltailTachopteryx thoreyi | Tachopteryx thoreyi | 32 |
| 46 | Great SpreadwingArchilestes grandis | Archilestes grandis | 31 |
| 47 | Elfin SkimmerNannothemis bella | Nannothemis bella | 31 |
| 48 | Spot-winged GliderPantala hymenaea | Pantala hymenaea | 29 |
| 49 | Fawn DarnerBoyeria vinosa | Boyeria vinosa | 29 |
| 50 | Vesper BluetEnallagma vesperum | Enallagma vesperum | 26 |
Plus 34 more established dragonflies species beyond the top 50. And 38 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
9,770 verified observations on iNaturalist of dragonfly have been recorded in Indiana, most often in June, July, August.
Yes, Indiana hosts over 100 dragonfly species, and the most commonly seen types include Common Green Darner, Blue Dasher, Eastern Pondhawk, Twelve-spotted Skimmer, and Widow Skimmer. These are widespread across the state and accessible near any calm freshwater habitat from late spring through early fall. If you're just starting, focus on these abundant types first, then expand to less common species once you recognize the key field marks. Look near ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams during warm months when activity peaks.
What are the most common dragonfly species in Indiana?
Indiana hosts many dragonfly species. The most frequently seen include Common Green Darner, Blue Dasher, Eastern Pondhawk, Twelve-spotted Skimmer, and Widow Skimmer. These species are widespread across the state and easy to spot near water. For a deeper examine their identification, check out ourdragonfly species hub.
In Indiana, dragonfly sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to the most useful ID markers and likely lookalikes. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where in Indiana do people usually notice dragonflies first?
Start your search around calm freshwater bodies. The best spots include Lake Monroe, Chain O'Lakes State Park, and the wetlands of the Kankakee River area. Urban parks with ponds also attract dragonflies. For a longer list of prime locations, visit ourIndiana wildlife guide.
Most misses happen when people arrive at the wrong hour or expect nonstop activity. Build around where in the state people usually notice them first, keep one backup area in mind, and use theanimal facts pageplustour planning ideasto compare what a realistic outing looks like in Indiana. If movement slows, stay longer at one promising spot, listen for calls or watch for edge movement, and reset around weather, light, water, or feeding changes instead of jumping to a totally new area too early.
What is the best season for confident dragonfly sightings in Indiana?
Dragonfly activity peaks from late May through early September. The warm months bring the highest diversity and numbers. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal times to watch them feeding. For timing your trip, refer to theIndiana wildlife pagefor seasonal tips.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
How do you identify a Common Green Darner vs. a Swamp Darner?
The Common Green Darner has a bright green thorax and a blue abdomen (males) or brownish abdomen (females). Swamp Darners are darker and less common. Look for the green 'bullet' shape; that's a good starting point. More detailed field marks can be found on ourdragonfly species page.
What do Twelve-spotted Skimmers and Widow Skimmers look like?
Twelve-spotted Skimmers have 12 dark wing spots (males) and a white pterostigma. Widow Skimmers have a dark band at the wing tip and a white center stripe on the abdomen. Both are medium-sized and often perch on twigs near water.
How can you tell a Blue Dasher from an Eastern Pondhawk?
Blue Dashers are smaller, with a slender blue abdomen and a greenish thorax. Eastern Pondhawks are larger, with a solid blue abdomen (male) and a white face. Pondhawks often hunt over lawns, while Blue Dashers stay near water edges.
What resources can help you learn more about Indiana dragonflies?
Field guides and online databases are invaluable. The Indiana DNR website offers checklists. You can also find printable stickers and guides at ourstickers page. Additionally, here is a handy tool for exploring dragonfly sightings:
What dragonfly types are less common but still found in Indiana?
Beyond the abundant species, Indiana also hosts Hine's Emerald (an endangered species rarely observed but historically present in northern wetlands), Fawn Darner, Slaty Skimmer, and various clubtails and gomphids. These require patience and targeted habitat knowledge to encounter. Hine's Emeralds are officially protected, so if spotted, reporting to the Indiana DNR helps conservation efforts. Most casual observers will focus on the common five, but knowing these less frequent types helps you appreciate Indiana's full dragonfly diversity. Check ourstate animal guideto learn more about rarer species and their preferred wetland micro-habitats.
How do field marks change between male and female dragonflies of the same species?
Males and females often look dramatically different within a single species. Male Common Green Darners have a bright blue abdomen, while females range from greenish-brown to orange-brown. Male Twelve-spotted Skimmers display bold dark wing patches, but females have fewer or no spots. Male Eastern Pondhawks are powder blue, while females are green or yellowish. This sexual dimorphism can make field identification tricky for beginners. Always note the abdomen color, thorax pattern, and wing markings together. For detailed comparison charts, visit ourspecies identification page.
What food sources drive dragonfly species distribution in Indiana?
Dragonfly presence follows insect abundance and water quality. Mosquitoes, small flies, midges, and aquatic insects make up their diet. Clean freshwater bodies support more diverse dragonfly populations because they host more prey species and cleaner aquatic nymphs. Agricultural runoff and stagnant water limit species diversity in some Indiana watersheds. The Kankakee River wetlands and preserved state park ponds support the richest communities. By protecting water quality and riparian vegetation, Indiana can maintain habitat for all native dragonfly types.
Where can you find dragonfly-themed merchandise?
If you want to keep dragonflies close, Easy Street Markets has a selection of items.
Colorful Dragonfly Stickers, Insect Decals, Planner Decorations []() These stickers feature vibrant dragonfly designs, perfect for adding a touch of nature to planners or notebooks. Check Price and Availability
Dragonfly T-Shirt []() A comfortable casual tee with a dragonfly graphic, great for wearing on your next outing. Check Price and Availability
3dRose Common Green Darner on Water Primrose in wetland Effingham Co. IL 15oz Two-Tone Yellow Mug []() A two-tone yellow mug featuring a detailed image of a Common Green Darner, perfect for morning coffee. Check Price and Availability
Frequently asked questions about dragonflies in Indiana
**Are there any rare dragonflies in Indiana?** Some species like the Hine's Emerald are endangered and rarely seen, but most dragonflies in Indiana are common.
**How long do dragonflies live?** Adults typically live from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the species.
**What do dragonflies eat?** They feed on mosquitoes, flies, and other small insects, making them beneficial to have around.
**Do dragonflies migrate?** Yes, some species like the Common Green Darner migrate south in the fall.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common dragonfly species in Indiana?+
Indiana hosts many dragonfly species. The most frequently seen include Common Green Darner, Blue Dasher, Eastern Pondhawk, Twelve-spotted Skimmer, and Widow Skimmer. These species are widespread across the state and easy to spot near water. For a deeper examine their identification, check out ourdragonfly species hub. In Indiana, dragonfly sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to the most useful ID markers and likely lookalikes. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where in Indiana do people usually notice dragonflies first?+
Start your search around calm freshwater bodies. The best spots include Lake Monroe, Chain O'Lakes State Park, and the wetlands of the Kankakee River area. Urban parks with ponds also attract dragonflies. For a longer list of prime locations, visit ourIndiana wildlife guide. Most misses happen when people arrive at the wrong hour or expect nonstop activity. Build around where in the state people usually notice them first, keep one backup area in mind, and use theanimal facts pageplustour planning ideasto compare what a realistic outing looks like in Indiana. If movement slows, stay longer at one promising spot, listen for calls or watch for edge movement, and reset around weather, light, water, or feeding changes instead of jumping to a totally new area too early.
What is the best season for confident dragonfly sightings in Indiana?+
Dragonfly activity peaks from late May through early September. The warm months bring the highest diversity and numbers. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal times to watch them feeding. For timing your trip, refer to theIndiana wildlife pagefor seasonal tips. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
How do you identify a Common Green Darner vs. a Swamp Darner?+
The Common Green Darner has a bright green thorax and a blue abdomen (males) or brownish abdomen (females). Swamp Darners are darker and less common. Look for the green 'bullet' shape; that's a good starting point. More detailed field marks can be found on ourdragonfly species page.
What do Twelve-spotted Skimmers and Widow Skimmers look like?+
Twelve-spotted Skimmers have 12 dark wing spots (males) and a white pterostigma. Widow Skimmers have a dark band at the wing tip and a white center stripe on the abdomen. Both are medium-sized and often perch on twigs near water.
How can you tell a Blue Dasher from an Eastern Pondhawk?+
Blue Dashers are smaller, with a slender blue abdomen and a greenish thorax. Eastern Pondhawks are larger, with a solid blue abdomen (male) and a white face. Pondhawks often hunt over lawns, while Blue Dashers stay near water edges.
What resources can help you learn more about Indiana dragonflies?+
Field guides and online databases are invaluable. The Indiana DNR website offers checklists. You can also find printable stickers and guides at ourstickers page. Additionally, here is a handy tool for exploring dragonfly sightings:
What dragonfly types are less common but still found in Indiana?+
Beyond the abundant species, Indiana also hosts Hine's Emerald (an endangered species rarely observed but historically present in northern wetlands), Fawn Darner, Slaty Skimmer, and various clubtails and gomphids. These require patience and targeted habitat knowledge to encounter. Hine's Emeralds are officially protected, so if spotted, reporting to the Indiana DNR helps conservation efforts. Most casual observers will focus on the common five, but knowing these less frequent types helps you appreciate Indiana's full dragonfly diversity. Check ourstate animal guideto learn more about rarer species and their preferred wetland micro-habitats.
How do field marks change between male and female dragonflies of the same species?+
Males and females often look dramatically different within a single species. Male Common Green Darners have a bright blue abdomen, while females range from greenish-brown to orange-brown. Male Twelve-spotted Skimmers display bold dark wing patches, but females have fewer or no spots. Male Eastern Pondhawks are powder blue, while females are green or yellowish. This sexual dimorphism can make field identification tricky for beginners. Always note the abdomen color, thorax pattern, and wing markings together. For detailed comparison charts, visit ourspecies identification page.
What food sources drive dragonfly species distribution in Indiana?+
Dragonfly presence follows insect abundance and water quality. Mosquitoes, small flies, midges, and aquatic insects make up their diet. Clean freshwater bodies support more diverse dragonfly populations because they host more prey species and cleaner aquatic nymphs. Agricultural runoff and stagnant water limit species diversity in some Indiana watersheds. The Kankakee River wetlands and preserved state park ponds support the richest communities. By protecting water quality and riparian vegetation, Indiana can maintain habitat for all native dragonfly types.
Where can you find dragonfly-themed merchandise?+
If you want to keep dragonflies close, Easy Street Markets has a selection of items. ### Colorful Dragonfly Stickers, Insect Decals, Planner Decorations []() These stickers feature vibrant dragonfly designs, perfect for adding a touch of nature to planners or notebooks. Check Price and Availability ### Dragonfly T-Shirt []() A comfortable casual tee with a dragonfly graphic, great for wearing on your next outing. Check Price and Availability ### 3dRose Common Green Darner on Water Primrose in wetland Effingham Co. IL 15oz Two-Tone Yellow Mug []() A two-tone yellow mug featuring a detailed image of a Common Green Darner, perfect for morning coffee. Check Price and Availability
Keep exploring
More places to see dragonfly