The shadow darner (Aeshna umbrosa) is a species of dragonfly in the family Aeshnidae.

This dragonfly is found in most of the United States except the dry Southwest and in all of the provinces and territories of Canada.

It is often found feeding along woodland edges or even in deep shadow in full forest.

The adult generally flies from late April to November, and does all of its hunting while on the wing.

Male shadow darners establish and defend territories along the shores of slow streams and ponds.

After mating, females fly singly, without the male attached, to lay their eggs in the stems and leaves of aquatic plants.