Macromiidae, Cruiser Family
Status-Global/State:
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The brown stream cruiser can be recognized by its coloration and male cruising behavior along shores. The thorax has a single yellow stripe on each side. The yellow face has two black stripes across it. The eyes change from brown to green as the dragonfly matures. Each wing has a small brown spot at the base. The male abdomen is clubbed and bears distinctive yellow cerci (appendages at end of the abdomen).
Description of Habitat/Range:
Common throughout eastern United States and southeastern Canada, the stream cruiser is usually found at streams, rivers, and lakes that are slow, forested and sandy-bottomed, not still or vegetated. Sometimes they are found in uplands, along edges of forested trails or fields. Before emergence occurs, the larvae often travel from the water's edge and may climb trees. They may travel more than 40 to 50 feet before emerging. This species is common in Wisconsin, especially in the northern half of the state.
Flight Season:
Late May to mid-July in Wisconsin. In the northern part of its range, the flight season is from early May to mid-September with a peak time in early spring.
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