The Dot-tailed Whiteface is a small, black dragonfly with a brilliant white face and a distinctive yellow spot on the dorsal surface of its abdomen — the 'dot in the tail.' It is one of the most common boreal dragonflies and breeds in sphagnum bogs and acidic lakes. Males are extremely territorial over their small bog territories.
Best time to see a Dot-tailed Whiteface
The best time to see a Dot-tailed Whiteface is May–June, when about 85% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 9,165 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Dot-tailed Whiteface? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Dot-tailed Whiteface sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Dot-tailed Whiteface? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Dot-tailed Whiteface is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love insects & arthropods? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.