The Scarlet Skimmer Dragonfly (Crocothemis servilia) is an insect in the Libellulidae family of dragonflies. It is also known as the Ruddy Marsh Skimmer.
The Scarlet Skimmer Dragonfly has a long red abdomen and transparent wings. Its eyes are blood-red. The female has an olive-brown body. It has a small dark patch at the base of its hindwings (back wings).
It grows to about 3-5 centimetres (1-2 inches) long.
The Scarlet Skimmer Dragonfly is common in south-east Asia, in countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. It prefers ponds, marshes, rice paddies, and open swamps in tropical areas.
It prefers both running and still waters in rivers and ponds.
[Location of photographs: Siem Reap, Cambodia]
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM