I spent a few hours on Friday afternoon at Westbere Lakes where the sun was shining and it felt quite warm. I had a wander around the area hoping there would be a few more species and better numbers than on my previous visit the week before. I managed to find c40 Variable Damselfly, 2 Red eyed Damselfly, 1 Common Blue Damselfly, c20 Blue tailed Damselfly but again, no Azure Damselfly. I can only hope that their emergence is just a little later and that the species is at threat here. It was pleasing to see 11 Hairy Dragonfly with a few mating pairs seen but never in good enough positions for photos. I think my highlight was finding 11 Banded Demoiselle. I really look forward to seeing this species every year and must be one of my favourite species to photograph. With some patience, I managed a few early season photos of them but hopefully many more to come over the next few weeks. The season will pick up pace in the next few weeks too with a number of species soon to emerge. Fingers crossed for some good weekend weather.
Excellent images of the Banded Demoiselle and Variable Damselfly. The Bluets are by no means straight forward ID, but for me, I need to note the broken antehumerals and bat/cape for the Variable.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks Pete. It's takes a few sessions to get your eye back in to see these subtle features. Take care.
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