Epaulette Skimmer
Dragonflies | Namibia
Introduction: Epaulette Skimmers (Orthetrum chrysostigma) sport distinctive stripes on each side of the thorax, hence the epaulette connection. Chrysostigma refers to the 'golden' colour of the pterostigma, chrysos meaning 'gold' and stigma 'tattoo mark'. They inhabit desert, wetlands, well-vegetated water bodies and temporary waters.
Distribution: Common and widespread throughout most of Namibia less for the most of the east and southern Namib Desert. Observed at Epupa Falls, Etosha National Park, Kaokoland, Damaraland, Swakopmund, Windhoek, Rehoboth, Okahandja, Gobabis.
Colouration: Single cream-coloured stripe on each side of the thorax, brownish back colour, lightly patterned black.
Breeding: Females oviposit in thick vegetation, guarded by males hovering over open water. Larval development from egg to emergence is under 50 days, allowing for a number of generations to be produced each year.
Flight season: Throughout the year.
Max size: 40 to 45mm.
Conservation: Not threatened.
Epupa Falls Lodge A tented camp on the banks of the Kunene River close to Epupa Falls and Himba settlements
Fort Sesfontein
On the border between Kaokoland and Damaraland this fort was built at the same time as the fort of Namutoni in Etosha
Kapika Waterfall Lodge
On a hill above the Kunene river, the lodge has tremendous views of the surrounding area and looks towards the Epupa Falls
Kunene River Lodge
An excellent lodge in a remote location on the banks of the Kunene River, for those interesting in birding, relaxing or river rafting this lodge is an absolute must
Ohakane Lodge
One of the oldest lodges in the Kaokoland area, from here guest can visit Himba villages and other areas of interest in Kaokoland
Okahirongo Elephant Lodge
Near the tiny settlement of Puros, this luxury lodge offers you the ability to search for the desert adapted elephants
Okahirongo River Camp
On a hillside overlooking the Kunene River this small intimate camp offers accommodation for a maximum of 14 people.
Opuwo Country Lodge
This is one of the newer lodges in Opuwo - it has beautiful views over Kaokoland -a real desert oasis
