Sympetrum striolatum - Common Darter
Male
Immature Male
Female
Mating pair
Exuvia (male, top view)
Description
Length: 38-43mm
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 S8 and S9.
Females have a pale, yellowish-brown abdomen often developing red markings along the segment boundaries and medial line as they age.
Habitat
Ponds and other still, stagnant or even brackish waters are used 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.
Status and Distribution
Abundant in England, Wales and Ireland. Less common in Scotland.
Distribution map from the National Biodiversity Network Gateway (opens in new window).
Similar species
The various resident and migrant species of Darter in the UK are easily confused, the females being particularly difficult to tell apart.
The yellow stripe on the legs and the orange-red (rather than blood-red) appearence of the mature male help to distinguish it from the Ruddy Darter