We found this magnificent male gold-ringed dragonfly Cordulegaster boltonii beside the river Derwent near Blanchland in Northumberland last week.
This was an unusually cooperative insect, allowing me to get very close. I suspect that it had only recently emerged from its nymphal stage. It flew briefly, then settled down again to sunbathe.
The female gold-ringed dragonfly has the longest body of any British dragonfly species; males are a little shorter and have a slightly clubbed tail, but are nevertheless spectacular insects.
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Cracking shots, Phil. I'd say you're correct, this isn't a mature individual. The eyes have yet to become fully green.
ReplyDeleteDidn't realise they changed colour, Graeme. I wonder if that affects their vision?
DeleteWhat a find. Congratulations on the photographs.
ReplyDeleteHaven't seen one of these for quite a while, Adrian...
DeleteThis is one on my 'to see' list.
ReplyDeleteExcellent shots Phil.
The upper reaches of the Northumberland Derwent are a really good breeding ground for it, Keith
DeleteI haven't seen one of these for decades, Phil. They are rather rare in this area. I reckon I shall be making a trip to try and find one soon! Thanks for prompting me with your delightful images!
ReplyDeleteBest wishes - - - Richard
Good luck, Richard!
DeleteWhat a delight!
ReplyDeletehave to say I was really thrilled that it let me get so close...
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