Sunday 3 June 2018

The Emperor has arrived

Bee Jackson spotted the first Emperor at the ponds in Norton, near Daventry (31 May) and since then they have been recorded at several other sites including Priors Hall during the Wildlife Trust BioBlitz on 2 June), and at Weldon by Darryl Sutcliffe.

James Underwood reports that the Variable Damselflies at Weldon are becoming harder to find, probably because they have moved to the water on territory, however James did find White-legged Damselflies along the stream here. The Weldon pond is becoming one of the best sites in the county, which is really weird considering it's a man-made pond (with a stream) that isn't particularly well vegetated.  

I found the first White-legged Damselflies on the River Ise at Burton Latimer on 24 May, and photographed more near Findon. The British Dragonfly Society are doing a special survey on this species, so please keep a look out and send me any sightings.

Finally, I saw 26 Scarce Chasers along the old railway line at Thrapston Town Lake, a mix or females and males at territory. Also, many Hairy Dragonflies and thousands on Common Blue Damselflies.


Male White-legged Damselfly, River Ise

Female White-legged Damselfly, River Ise

Scarce Chaser, Thrapston Town Lake

Immature Male Scarce Chaser, Thrapston Town Lake

Female Scarce Chaser, Thrapston Town Lake