Dragonfly ID please!

david156 · #1 (**permalink**) 04-11-2009, 07:02 PM

Hi all insect experts.

Was out on the marshes by the River Yare, in Norfolk, today and came across a number of these Dragonflies.

I think its a Common Darter - Sympetrum striolatum which I believe do fly late into the year but wonder if someone out that could confirm this or correct me if i'm wrong!

Cheers David

Tormentil · #2 (**permalink**) 04-11-2009, 07:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by david156

I think its a Common Darter - Sympetrum striolatum

You're right, a Common Darter.

aeshna5 · #3 (**permalink**) 04-11-2009, 08:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tormentil

You're right, a Common Darter.

Agree!

david156 · #4 (**permalink**) 04-11-2009, 09:16 PM

Hi Tormentil and aeshna5.
Was going to reply earlier but had to do "dad's taxi" routine and then got a flat tyre!!

Now having a beer and catching up.

Didn't expect to see dragonflies at this time of the year. Does anyone know how long they will be out for? Is it temperature dependant? (although it was just below 5 degrees last night)

Cheers David.

Wild-Woman · #5 (**permalink**) 06-11-2009, 06:12 AM

There have been records of these hanging on into December in a warm year. Still good to see them.

Vincent86 · #6 (**permalink**) 06-11-2009, 12:28 PM

Correct, it is a Common Darter.

More info here:
The Common Darter (Sympetrum striolatum) is a dragonfly of the family Libellulidae native to Eurasia. It is one of the most common dragonflies in Europe, occurring in a wide variety of water bodies, though with a preference for breeding in still water such as ponds and lakes. Adults are on the wing from June until November - occasionally into December.