Dragonflies

Broad-bodied Chaser, Libellula depressa. Spotted on a number of occasions by the pond in the Wildlife Trail. Identified by the yellow dots along its side and its broad body. Photo Stephen Middleton

Common darter dragonfly, Sympetrum striolatum. Habitat is ponds and other still, stagnant or even brackish waters are used, and they are frequently found at small garden ponds. They are frequently found away from water, resting on the tops of plants in woodland rides.

Southern Hawker, Aeshna cyanea. A frequent visitor to the pond in the Wildlife Trail. This male was expertly netted, handled and freed by Dan Hackett. They are highly inquisitive and will fly very close if you keep still. We’ve seen them laying eggs at the pond and are aware of at least a dozen nymphs hatching to adulthood in 2021. […]