Scarce Emerald Damselfly?

jdoherty · #1 (**permalink**) 16-07-2009, 07:51 AM

I took this photo last evening at Glenside quarry which is a small nature reserve on the outskirts of Belfast. I'd never seen one of these before but there were a small number flittering about. Looking in my books I think it might be the Scarce Emerald Damselfly. Can anyone confirm or suggest an ID?

Thanks, John.

wint · #2 (**permalink**) 16-07-2009, 08:56 AM

Hi John

I can't see any 'metallic' going onto the sides of the prothorax and the ovipositor doesn't appear to go past the end of S10 so I reckon it would be an Emerald Damselfly (Lestes Sponsa)... but I would get a second opinion at least!

Paul

RoyW · #3 (**permalink**) 16-07-2009, 09:35 AM

It is a Common Emerald Damselfly (or Common Spreadwing) for the reasons already given by Wint. Female Scarce Emeralds also tend to be noticeably 'thicker bodied'.

Roy.