Sympetrum vulgatum - Vagrant Darter
Male
Male - note the descending black stripe by the eyes
Male - infested with mites
Female
Female - note the descending black stripe by the eyes
Female in obelisk position - note the protruding vulvar scale
Pair in tandem
Exuvia (male, top view)
Description
Length: 35-40mm
Like the Common Darter but the mature male is a deeper red.
The sides of the thorax are not so well marked.
In hand examination of the frons is needed to be sure of this species.
Habitat
Shallow ponds and lakes with abundant marginal vegetation.
Status and Distribution
Rare migrant from Central Europe.
Distribution map from the National Biodiversity Network Gateway (opens in new window).
Similar species
Very similar to Common Darter.
The black transvers bar above the frons descends down the inner margins of the eyes.
A character not seen except when examined in hand.
Possibly under recorded.