Peak time for Scarce Chasers

As the Scarce Chasers reach their peak over the next couple of weeks, 100s can be seen on the Nene, especially at Wadenhoe and Oundle where access to the water margins is good. I saw 100+ at Lilford, with 6 mating pairs, many sharing the same area and not interacting with each other - normally they are territorial, but can tolerate interlopers when numbers are high. Good numbers an be seen along the old railway line at Thrapston too, as well as Titchmarsh Nature Reserve.

Along the Brampton Valley Way, 100s of Beautiful Demoiselle flit along the trees and bushes as they mature before returning to the river. At Hanging Houghton I saw 26, and Darryl Sutcliffe saw many more further south.

Female Common Blue Damselfly, Stanwick Lakes

Rufescens form female Blue-tailed Damselfly, Stanwick Lakes

Male Beautiful Demoiselle, Brampton Valley Way Hanging Houghton

Scarce Chasers, River Nene Lilford