Sympetrum striolatum, Common Darter

Common Name: Common Darter

Sympetrum striolatum, more commonly known as the Common Darter, is a summer and autumn species, this dragonfly can be found well into November and may be one of the last on the wing in the UK. The thorax in both sexes is brown above with poorly defined antehumeral stripes and yellow panels on the sides.

The eyes are brown above and yellow below. The legs are black with a diagnostic yellow stripe along their length. The males become a bright orange-red with maturity with small black spots on segments 8 and 9. Females have a pale, yellowish-brown abdomen often developing red markings along the segment boundaries and medial line as they age.

Usual habitat is ponds and other still, stagnant or even brackish waters and they are frequently found at small garden ponds. They are frequently found away from water, resting on the tops of plants in woodland rides. Abundant in England, Wales and Ireland. Less common in Scotland.

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