 |
Attenborough Nature Reserve |  |
|
|
Attenborough Nature Reserve | |
 |
This species was not recorded until 1989 but possibly passed unnoticed previously. Maximum numbers are only in the low tens, the main flight period being from late June to early September. The species is easily identified since the wings are held slightly open in a 'delta' formation when at rest. Both male and female have a green abdomen and clear wings. The mature male develops a powder-blue coating (pruinescence) at the base and tip of the abdomen. The Emerald Damselfly likes an abundance of tall waterside vegetation from which it only occasionally strays. Their flight is in short jerks and 'lestes' means nimble-flighted. Male Emerald Damselfly |
|
The female, whilst paired, oviposits in the vegetation, often above the water level. The areas of the reserve which are favoured as meeting these requirements include the north bank of the Delta Pond, Beeston Marsh and Wet Marsh. Unlike most damselflies, it overwinters in the egg form and the larvae consequently have a rapid rate of development in the spring. |
 Female Emerald Damselfly |
