Broad-bodied Chaser Libellula depressa
Length
44mm, Wings 76mm
Males
Thorax brown, pale, broad antehumeral stripes; brown patches at base of wings; broad abdomen blue with yellow spots at sides, legs brown, eyes brown.
Females
Thorax brown, pale, broad antehumeral stripes; abdomen yellowish brown with yellow spots along sides; wings brown base areas.
Immatures
Both sexes yellowish.
Gallery
Habitat
Occurs on areas of standing water, favouring small open ponds or ditches.
Behavior
Male aggressive, protects its territory, often resting on same perch. Females seized and rapidly mated. Female lays eggs alone, with male in vicinity. Eggs dropped into water. Larvae 2 years.
Status
A species that is expanding its range. Scarce in the East Riding, though breeding is probably taking place at several sites. Can visit garden ponds which could be a good source of records.
Flight Period
From mid-May to early August.
