KAPOWAI GIANT BUSH DRAGONFLY

Uropetala carovei

This is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest dragonfly species, although the closely related giant mountain dragonfly (Uropetala chiltoni) is only slightly smaller. They probably haven’t changed much in appearance over millions of years and are loud and slow fliers compared with other dragonflies. As the name suggests, they prefer vegetation to open water bodies.

Description: Adult (above) body length is around 90mm and wingspan approximately 110mm across. Generally coloured black with pale yellow markings; possibly a form of disruptive camouflage when in flight. Naiads (below) look very different: no wings, colour brownish, and shorter and more heavily built.

Habitat and distribution: Kapowai prefer shaded forest or scrub habitat; naiads shelter in burrows in seeps and streams. Seen throughout much of Te Ika-a-Māui North Island and northern, western and southern Te Waipounamu South Island. Adults might be seen from November to May, most often in January and February.

Biology: Prey is taken in mid-flight. Huge compound eyes help these dragonflies lock on to a target even in a crowd of possible victims. A short burst of speed allows the dragonfly to hit its mark. Once the prey is secured, the dragonfly lands and consumes it in a leisurely fashion. Kapowai can take quite large insects, including bumblebees and butterflies, although smaller insects tend to make up the bulk of their diet. Adult males hold a territory near a suitable breeding site, patrolling it to defend against rivals, who may be grappled in mid-air. These dragonflies may also be seen resting on rocks and trees, basking in sunlight. Naiads are every bit as predatory as adults, emerging at night to hunt. This semi-aquatic larval stage may exceed five years.

Status in Aotearoa: Endemic