The medium-sized, dark brown striped emeralds have some pale markings on the thorax and abdomen, black legs, clear wings and brilliant green eyes. The thorax has a metallic bronze-green sheen and the abdomen is dark metallic black-green. Most species are uncommonly seen, but this may be largely due to their secretive nature. When flying, most species look alike which is why in-hand identifications of their anatomical features are often needed.
A small dark emerald that is identified by round yellow spots on its thorax and a short abdomen. The face is black. Females may have wings tinted brown. Its abdomen seems to be wider in the middle when compared to other Somatochlora species. The body length varies from 1.7 to 1.9 inches.
Common throughout Canada and northern United States, it is usually found at clear, slow flowing streams in the forests. In Wisconsin, it is common except in the most southern counties.
Mid-June to late July in Wisconsin. Throughout its range, the flight season is from early June to late September.