This is a fairly common darner of varied water bodies throughout Wisconsin. Its uniqueness, and thus its name, lies in its early flight period, being active in the second half of May and much of June. Although it resembles the "blue" or "mosaic" darners, this species is slightly smaller and flies earlier in the year than members of the Aeshna genus. Time of year is critical for identification but also note (1) the brown thorax with two creamy yellow, straight, and unnotched thoracic stripes, and (2) small brown spots at the base of each wing.