Attenborough Nature Reserve


Dragonflies



Four-Spotted Chaser (Libellula quadrimaculata)

This short-bodied, brown dragonfly, with four black spots on the wings, has only been recorded once on the reserve. It is a fast flier, usually low over the water and is most likely to be found frequenting water margins. This species will often return to a favourite resting post. It is found at several other sites in Nottinghamshire but, like many less common dragonfly species, flies earlier from late May to early August. Although this species will usually stay in its breeding area, they are known to migrate, sometimes in large numbers.

Four Spot Chaser Chaser
Four Spot Chaser


Broad-Bodied Chaser (Libellula depressa)

Male and female specimens of this species were first recorded around the Delta area in 1995 and in 1996, several were noted in the vicinity of the Wet Marsh and Clifton Pond area. Broad-bodied Chasers have a short, wide and flattened brownish abdomen, which has yellow markings along its side. The abdomen in mature males may become entirely powdery-blue. They may be seen flying around bushes or settled on the tips of branches during their flight period from late April to early September. This species may also be seen well away from water in woods, forests or even gardens.

Broad-bodied Chaser
Male Broad-bodied Chaser