Tuesday 3 August 2021

Kent's Keeled Skimmers

With a few hours to myself yesterday (Monday) and with favourable weather conditions forecast, I thought I would have a drive over to Hothfield Common near Ashford where Kent's only colony of Keeled Skimmer can be found. Having not visited the site for three years, I was keen to see this species again and after pulling up in a sunny car park at 10:30am, I wondered over to the small boggy area and walked out along the boardwalk. Initially it was pretty quiet with just a few Common Darter flying up on to the boardwalk to warm up but eventually with a bit of patience and searching, I was able to find 7 Keeled Skimmer which included 6 males. It was pleasing to be able to study their features and then plan a few shots when they come near enough. With the temperature warming up all the time they become more active which gave me a few more opportunities as they perched up over the bog. With a few pleasing shots in the bag, I spent a while sitting on the boardwalk where a few males flew in and perched before flying up occasionally to chase off rival males. Nice to see this colony is doing well and the site looks good and well managed which is encouraging for the future for this species. 












Keeled Skimmer (Orthetrum coerulescens) - male


Keeled Skimmer (Orthetrum coerulescens) - female

5 comments:

  1. I think you already know what I feel about the Kent and any other Keeled Skimmers Marc. And there are images of them, and stunning images of them too....Keep on keeping on Marc.

    Regards

    Pete.

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    1. Many thanks Pete for your kind words. They are a scarce species in Kent with small numbers but they manage to keep a foothold here. The habitat looks good for Golden ringed here too. One day maybe! Take care.

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  2. You did extremely well, getting those Keeled Skimmers with uncluttered backgrounds, Marc. All the ones I saw last month were settling low down on grass etc. I think that female Keeled Skimmers are fabulous - they always seem to look as if they are made out of polished gold!

    Take good care - - - Richard

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    1. Yes I was surprised I did as well as I did considering the time I was there and the number on offer. Take care.

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  3. Hi Marc.
    I know little about dragonflies, only that they a hard to photograph, but you always amaze me on the quality of your photo's. Once again, brilliant. Take care.
    Mike.

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