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Friday, April 12, 2013

Amber-winged Glider (Hydrobasileus croceus)


A very rare dragonfly recorded only once in Sri Lanka from the Kandy according to the Terrence de Fonseka (de Fonseka T., 2000). However 2012 National red list listed it under Near Threatened category probably due to records of more occurrences of it in the island than previously thought. Both sexes are similar and it can be easily identified by the amber color patch on the hind-wing. It is said that it breeds on weedy tanks and where males can be found waiting for females( de Fonseka T., 2000 quoting Fraser ). I have encountered two specimens on 16th February 2013 close to the Kalu River at Dombagaskandha forest reserve in Ingiriya. First one was flying about 2-3 m above the ground (Time - Around 1PM) close to a tributary of Kalu River. Second one was resting on a road side shrub during the evening (Time - Around 4 PM). 
at

4 comments:

  1. BindiApril 12, 2013 at 10:33 AM

    Thanks for the article. I really like this blog.
    Is this an endemic one. I think Dragon flies are somewhat strong because I can see many here in Hanoi while not many butterflies are visible due to polution or any other reason.

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    Replies
    1. BushanaApril 12, 2013 at 5:30 PM

      Bindi
      It is not an endemic species. Your observations on Hanoi butterflies and dragonflies are may be correct but I can't verify that. I have also seen 'certain' dragonflies are sometime abundance even in slightly polluted areas but non of our endemic dragonflies can bear pollution or destruction of forests.

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  2. Blue LotusApril 12, 2013 at 3:55 PM

    I have seen red ones, blue ones and many others which are equally very beautiful. but not this one.In the past, without knowing the mechanisms of photography, I have taken so many photos of dragonflies but each time the photo was not clear and I was highly frustrated.

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    Replies
    1. BushanaApril 12, 2013 at 5:38 PM

      Blue Lotus
      This is also my first sighting of this. Dragonfly photography is not impossible even with miniature digital cameras these days since those are very handy when it come to macro photography. But you have to get bit closer to the subject and ofcourse you need some patient for that:)

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