Dragonflies and damselflies can be found anywhere within the park although normally near to awater source. The larger dragonflies, especially, the Hawkers will hold territories which may capture large areas of woodland and open grassland so don’t be surprised to come across an inquisitive individual whilst walking around the grassy meadows.Depending on the weather and in particular temperature,dragonflies and damselflies normally first appear in late April/early Mayand they can normally be seen into late September/early October.
The following species of Dragonflies (Anisoptera) and Damselflies (Zygoptera) have been seen or recorded in the park this year. Dates in brackets represent first sightings as reported to me. If you have an earlier date or a new species to be added then please get in touch.
Damselflies (Zygoptera)
1. Large Red Damselfly (25/05/13)
2. Azure Blue Damselfly (25/05/13)
3. Common Blue Damselfly (27/05/13)
4. Blue-tailed Damselfly (27/05/13)
5. Banded Demoiselle (07/07/13)
6. Small Red-eyed Damselfly (18/07/13)
7. Willow Emerald Damselfly (18/07/13)
Dragonflies (Anisoptera)
1. Hairy Dragonfly (27/05/13)
2. Emperor Dragonfly (27/06/13)
3. Black-tailed Skimmer (07/07/13)
4. Four-spotted Chaser (07/07/13)
5. Southern Hawker (18/07/13)
6. Brown Hawker (18/07/13)
7. Ruddy Darter (01/08/13)
8. Common Darter (02/08/13)
9. Migrant Hawker (02/08/13)
Steven Bird