Yellow-barred Flutterer
About the Yellow-barred Flutterer in Singapore
Last updated 2 June 2026
The Yellow-barred Flutterer (Rhyothemis variegata phyllis) is a small to medium-sized resident dragonfly. They are a common, sun-loving species found around open ponds, marshes, and secondary forest edges.
Identifying features
Check out some identifying features of the Yellow-barred Flutterer!
The Yellow Barred Flutterer is characterized by a spectacular, unmistakable pattern at the base of its hindwings, consisting of thick bands of bright yellow, dark brown, and deep metallic blue. Its dark, slightly metallic, almost black thorax and abdomen perfectly contrast these bright, flashy wings. In this species, males and females look almost completely identical. In flight, it displays noticeably broad wings that are proportionally larger than those of typical dragonflies, an adaptation that allows for its unique, butterfly-like fluttering flight style.
Interested to learn more about how to identify Dragonflies? Check out our simple guide on identifying Dragonflies!
Habitat and ecology
Unlike the rapid, aggressive darting flight of most dragonflies, this species has a much slower, fluttering flight pattern. When flying in swarms to catch tiny insects, they look more like a group of colorful butterflies gliding in the sun.
Did you know?
Because they are sun-loving and rely on their striking wing patterns, the golden-yellow and blue sections of their wings actually reflect sunlight beautifully, creating a brilliant, glowing sheen as they flutter over the water!
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 Yellow-barred Flutterer!
Curious about the Yellow-barred Flutterer? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
