Unicorn darner facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Unicorn darner
Male
Conservation status
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification

The unicorn darner (scientific name: Austroaeschna unicornis) is a type of dragonfly. Dragonflies are amazing insects known for their bright colors and fast flight. This particular dragonfly belongs to a family called Telephlebiidae.

You can find the unicorn darner in eastern Australia. They live in places like Brisbane, Tasmania, and around Adelaide in South Australia. These dragonflies love to hang out near rivers and streams, which are their natural homes.

What It Looks Like

The unicorn darner is a long and slender dragonfly. Its body is mostly brown or black. But it also has cool pale blue markings that stand out! These markings give it a unique look.

Where It Lives

Unicorn darners are found across a wide area in eastern Australia. Their habitat stretches from the sunny city of Brisbane all the way down to the cooler island of Tasmania. You can also spot them near Adelaide in South Australia. They prefer places with fresh water, like rivers and streams, where they can hunt for food and lay their eggs.

Interesting Fact

For a while, another type of dragonfly, called Austroaeschna pinheyi, was thought to be a subspecies of the unicorn darner. This means scientists believed it was just a slightly different version of the same species. However, now they are considered two separate species!

Images for kids

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  Male wings

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  Male, side view

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  Newly emerged adult

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  New wings

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  Face

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  Male tip of tail

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  Female wings

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  Male wings