This dragonfly is a skimmer (Family Libellulidea). It is about 11/2 inches long with a wingspan of about 31/2 inches, and is found near ponds and streams. The male has a blue abdomen and green eyes. The female has a dark brown abdomen with yellow stripes and the eyes are reddish brown. Both male and female have a brown thorax with yellow stripes, and both have variable amber patches on the wings.

The wings are often held downwards when this dragonfly is perched. Males are aggressive towards each other and will guard females. When egg laying, the female flies parallel to the water and flicks the tip of her abdomen downwards to wash off the eggs.