Southern Hawker - Aeshna cyanea
Photos
A male Southern Hawker taken by myself, along with photos contributed by Rory Morrisey
Male, Felmersham NR
Male, Felmersham NR
Immature male, Linslade Woods - Photograph kindly donated by Rory Morrisey
Female ovipositing, Alwins Field - Photograph kindly donated by Rory Morrisey
Female ovipositing, Alwins Field - Photograph kindly donated by Rory Morrisey
Main features
Large dragonfly, with a prominent apple green thorax. The male has mostly green spots along the upper surface of abdomen, with blue spots on the side, and also the upper side of S8, 9 & 10.
The female is similar to the male, with green spots rather than blue.
Often flies alone, and is quite curious of people, will often come to investigate.
Habitat
Prefers woodland pools, ponds and lakes with plenty of surrounding trees and hedges. Often seen late in the day away from water hawking along clearings in search of food. Also a common visitor to garden ponds.
Where to see
Widespread around the county, but not usually seen in large numbers. I've mostly encountered them at Felmersham NR.
Visible from mid June to October