What is the Black-tipped Flashwing damselfly?

The Black-tipped Flashwing (Vestalis apicalis) is a large endemic damselfly found in Sri Lanka. It is identified by its metallic green body, broad wings, and the black wingtips present in males. It belongs to the family Chlorocyphidae and is one of the most commonly observed endemic odonates on the island.

Where can I find the Black-tipped Flashwing in Sri Lanka?

The species inhabits shaded stream and river banks in the lowland and lower montane wet and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka, primarily in the southwestern and central regions. Sinharaja Forest Reserve and similar intact wet-zone forests are among the best locations. Look for adults perched on vegetation overhanging slow or moderate-flowing streams.

Is the Black-tipped Flashwing endemic to Sri Lanka?

Yes, it is entirely endemic to Sri Lanka and not found naturally anywhere else in the world. Sri Lanka's wet-zone forests and clean mountain streams have provided the isolated conditions for many odonate species to evolve independently. The Black-tipped Flashwing is one of the more widespread and frequently encountered of these endemic damselflies.

What is the difference between male and female Black-tipped Flashwings?

Both sexes share the species' distinctive metallic green coloration. The clearest distinguishing feature is the prominent black wingtips found on males, while females typically have clear or only lightly marked wingtips. Immature individuals of both sexes tend to display duller, less metallic colouring.

What time of year is best for seeing damselflies in Sri Lanka's wet zone?

The inter-monsoon periods — roughly March to April and October to November — tend to offer the most stable stream conditions and the clearest sunlight for observing damselflies. Morning hours, once temperatures begin to rise, are generally most productive. Adults are present year-round, but heavy monsoon flows can make streamside observation more challenging.

Where do Black-tipped Flashwings lay their eggs?

Females oviposit into the stems and roots of riparian vegetation overhanging the waterway. This places the eggs close to the aquatic environment where the larvae will develop. The larvae are aquatic predators that live within the stream substrate until they emerge as winged adults.

Can I photograph the Black-tipped Flashwing easily?

The species is relatively approachable compared to many other damselflies, often perching for extended periods on overhanging leaves. A macro lens or a close-focus bridge camera works well for capturing the metallic green coloration. Early morning light along a forest stream provides the most flattering conditions and the highest activity levels.

Black-tipped Flashwing

This metallic green damselfly is one of the largest in Sri Lanka, reaching a total length of around three inches. It is easily recognizable by its colour, size, and broad wings, with males having prominent black wingtips.

Habitat & Behavior: The species is found in the lowlands and lower montane zones of both wet and intermediate climatic regions. It is commonly seen perched on vegetation along stream and river banks.

Social & Reproductive Behavior: Multiple individuals of both sexes are often encountered in the same habitat, while immature individuals are found in forest gaps away from streams. Females lay their eggs inside riparian vegetation overhanging the waterways.

Distribution: This damselfly is one of the most commonly encountered endemic species in Sri Lanka, thriving in diverse aquatic environments.