Male flame skimmers are known for their entirely red or dark orange body, this includes eyes, legs, and even wing veins. Females are usually a medium or darker brown with some thin, yellow markings. This particular type of skimmer varies in size but is generally measured somewhere between two and three inches long. These naiads are known for being rather large and chubby-looking due to their rounded abdomen. They are covered with hair but, unlike most young dragonflies, they lack hooks or spines.

Due to its choice habitat of warm ponds, streams, or hot springs, flame skimmers are found mainly in the southwestern part of the United States. They also make their homes in public gardens or backyards.

EXIF Data

Camera Type: Canon PowerShot A610
Lens: 7.3-29.2 mm
Date Taken: 8/2/2009
Aperture: f/3.5
Shutter Speed: 1/60
ISO: N/A
Exposure Mode: Automatic
Focal Length: 21.7 mm
White Balance: Auto
Metering Mode: Evaluative
Light Source (In Camera): N/A
Flash: Auto 
Light Source (External): Early evening light
Size (MB): 1.07
Location: 4361 Custis Avenue, Sacramento, California
Latitude: 38,32.7424N
Longitude: 121,29.8172W
Elevation: 7.70 m