Male flame skimmers are known for their entirely red or dark orange body, which includes eyes, legs, and even wing veins. Females are usually a medium or darker brown with some thin, yellow markings. This type of skimmer varies in size but is generally measured between two and three inches long. These naiads are known for being rather large and chubby-looking due to their rounded abdomen. They are covered with hair but, unlike most young dragonflies, they lack hooks or spines.