Coenagrion hastulatum - Northern Damselfly
Male
Female
Pair in tandem
Description
Length: 31mm
This species is found in only a few small lochans in Scotland.
In the male, S2 has a rather variable, spear-head shaped spot linked rather like the cards ♠ "Spades" symbol.
S8 and S9 are blue except for 2 small black spots on S9.
The female is clear green from the side but mostly black from above.
Habitat
This species is restricted in the UK to sedge-fringed lochans in the Scottish Highlands.
Status and Distribution
Rare and local. This is a Red Data Book species.
Distribution map from the National Biodiversity Network Gateway (opens in new window).
Similar species
This species is easily confused with the other members of the genus Coenagrion and with the Common Blue Damselfly.
Look at S2 (on the males) for distinguishing characters.
Northern Damselfly is a weak flyer and has a very restricted range.
The females can be particularly tricky to distinguish apart.