Hawker Species ID please

[Falcn]

This shot was taken a while back in July in North Nottinghamshire. I know it is an emerging hawker, but can't figure out which species. Any ideas?

[aeshna5]

Doesn't look like a hawker to me. I would say it's a Common Darter.

[Jason Green]

Morning Falcn, and welcome to WAB!

My first thought last night was Common Darter too, but I wasn't too sure how to seperate Darters from Hawkers.

Take care,

Jason

[Falcn]

I'm reliably informed that this is a teneral common darter, yet to gain its adult colouration. Thanks for the comments.

[RoyW]

Originally Posted by Jason Green

My first thought last night was Common Darter too, but I wasn't too sure how to seperate Darters from Hawkers.

One of the ways that dragonflies can be identified to family level is by looking at the differences in the veins in the wings (as for some other orders of insects). The relatively small number of 'antehumeral' veins at the leading edge of the forewing (I've counted 6 1/2 in this one) rule out hawker species, and other features identify it as a Common Darter.

By the way, don't always trust what you may read on other websites Falcn!


Edit: It's a superb photo BTW!