Wandering ringtail facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Wandering ringtail
Female
Male Austrolestes leda
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification

The wandering ringtail (scientific name: Austrolestes leda) is a cool type of damselfly found in Australia. It's part of the Lestidae family. These amazing insects are also known as wandering ringtails. They love to hang out near calm or slow-moving water.

What is a Damselfly?

Damselflies are often mistaken for dragonflies, but they are usually smaller. They also have a more slender body. When they rest, most damselflies hold their wings together over their back. Dragonflies, on the other hand, usually hold their wings out flat.

Where They Live

The wandering ringtail lives all across eastern Australia. You can find them in places where the water is still or moves very slowly. This includes ponds, lakes, and calm parts of rivers. They need these watery spots to lay their eggs and for their young to grow.

What They Look Like

The wandering ringtail is a medium to large-sized damselfly.

• The male wandering ringtail is a striking light blue and black.
• Females have different colors, often a mix of green, brown, or yellow.
• Both males and females have clear wings.

Gallery

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  Female

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  Male

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  Male holding the neck of a female while she lays her eggs

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  Face

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  Female wings

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  Male wings