Dark Forest Damsel (අඳුරු මහ වන ඉරටුකූරා)

  

The Dark Forest Damsel is one of the largest damselflies in Sri Lanka, reaching about two and a half inches in length. It belongs to the Platystictidae family, which has the highest number of damselfly species in the country.

Habitat & Distribution: This forest-dwelling species is endemic to Sri Lanka and found only in rainforests, sub-montane and montane cloud forests, and densely vegetated home gardens with closed canopies.

Identification & Behavior: These dark-colored damselflies are recognizable by the distinct blue tip on their abdomen, which is visible in the shady habitats they occupy. They are often seen perching on vegetation about a meter above the ground.

Reproduction: The female is smaller than the male and lays eggs inside soft plant stems close to streams, ensuring the survival of the next generation in their preferred forest habitats.