Our insect of the week for April 20, 2026 is Tramea onusta [ODONATA: Libellulidae], commonly known as the red saddlebags. This species was described in 1861 by Hermann Hagen (a German entomologist who we also met a couple of weeks ago).

This species if found in North America, Central Amrica and the Caribbean. Adults have dark red blotches near the base of their hind wings which resemble saddlebags. Hence the common name. Adults are often observed flying over lawns (for example in parks and gardens). Adults can be seen from May through August in central Illinois. As with most dragonflies, adults will consume most soft bodied flying insects. Nymphs often eat larval amphibians.

The specimen in this photograph was collected by our member, Gordon Adams in Peoria County.