Common Scarlet
About the Common Scarlet in Singapore
Last updated 29 May 2026
The Common Scarlet (Crocothemis servilia) is a medium-sized dragonfly. A sun-loving species, the Common Scarlet can often be found basking in the sun.
Identifying features
Check out some of the identifying features of the Common Scarlet below.
The male Common Scarlet has a bright red body, with a red patch on the base of its hindlegs, while the female has a light brown body and clear wings. Both sexes have a prominent, dark line running along their abdomens.
Interested to learn more about how to identify Dragonflies? Check out our simple guide on identifying Dragonflies!
Habitat and ecology
Common Scarlets can be commonly found in disturbed, open habitats and grassy water bodies with still water.
Did you know?
The male Common Scarlet is often seen guarding his territory by perching on the tip of an emergent plant and chasing off other dragonflies of the same species or other species, before returning to its perch.
Join us at Dragonfly Watch!
Enjoy spotting dragonflies, or interested to learn more about the ones you see in our parks and gardens? Join us for the Dragonfly Watch to collect valuable data about local species, which contributes to their conservation.
Learn more about the Common Scarlet
Curious about the Common Scarlet? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
