Damselfly ID please

heron09 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-09-2011, 02:26 PM

I'm wondering if this is a Scarce Bluetailed f? nothing else like it in my book. Marshside, nr Chislet , Kent 2.9.11. slow [if at all] stream with duckweed. Others seen - Willow Emerald, Emerald and Common Blue. thank you.

wint · #2 (**permalink**) 03-09-2011, 04:06 PM

It's the female form rufescens-obsoleta of the Blue-tailed Damselfly.

heron09 · #3 (**permalink**) 03-09-2011, 05:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wint

It's the female form rufescens-obsoleta of the Blue-tailed Damselfly.

tks very much. I thought it too orange, and my book only shows a side on view so couldn't see the top, but can now see the difference.

wint · #4 (**permalink**) 04-09-2011, 08:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by heron09

tks very much. I thought it too orange, and my book only shows a side on view so couldn't see the top, but can now see the difference.

Yes - it's not well illustrated in my books either (Brooks or Dijkstra)! There's quite a bit of variation from dull to bright orange. Not sure if it's age-related - perhaps they are a brighter orange as they change from the pink immature form to the mature form.

Paul