Metallic ringtail facts for kids

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

The metallic ringtail (Austrolestes cingulatus) is a cool insect found in Australia. It's a type of damselfly, which are often confused with dragonflies but are usually thinner and hold their wings differently when resting. This damselfly belongs to a family called Lestidae.

You can find the metallic ringtail in many parts of Australia. It lives across Tasmania, Victoria, and the eastern areas of New South Wales.

This damselfly is quite thin and medium-sized. It has a shiny, metallic look, often appearing green and gold, or sometimes bluish-green and gold. Each part of its body, called an abdominal segment, has a light-colored "ring." These rings, along with its glossy, metallic shine, are how it got its unique name!

Where the Metallic Ringtail Lives

The metallic ringtail loves places with still water. You can spot it in rivers, lakes, ponds, and swamps. It also lives in special wet areas called alpine bogs, which are found in mountain regions.

When to Spot Them

These damselflies are most active during the warmer months. You can usually see them flying around from October all the way through March. They often hang out among plants near the water.

Gallery

• 

  Mating pair

• 

  Female wings

• 

  Male wings