Photos

Black-tailed Skimmer - Orthetrum cancellatum, mostly around Felmersham NR where they are very common.

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  Female, Felmersham NR
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  Female, Felmersham NR
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  Probably an immature male, Kempston.This picture was taken some distance from any body of water; immature odonata often move well away from water until they mature, when they return to breed.
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  Male, Felmersham NR. This particular male has bred at least once, as can be seen from the scuffs visible in the blue pruinescence on the abdomen.
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  Male, Felmersham NR
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  Pair "in cop" at Felmersham NR
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  Pair "in cop" at Felmersham NR

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  Pair "in cop" at Felmersham NR
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  Male, Felmersham NR
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  Male, Felmersham NR
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  Immature male - Bromham Lake NR

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Main Features

Mid sized dragonlfy. Males are a striking pale blue with a black tipped abdomen, females and immature males are yellow with dark striped markings. The female darkens with age, becoming a dull brown.

Habitat

Prefers still water sites with clear banks, but also seen along rivers. Quick to visit new sites. Males can often be seen basking on light coloured rocks or pathways.

Where to see

Common at still water sites such as Felmersham NR, and also along stretches of the River Great Ouse, I've often spotted them along the Biddenham Country Walk. They can often be spotted at the boating lake in Bedford.

Visible from late May to early September