Common Blue Damselfly (Enallagma cyathigerum)Slide Show

This damselfly as its name suggests can be found in fairly large numbers throughout the United Kingdom, both near still water and slow flowing areas of rivers and streams.

They can be abundant and are often seen in the company of the other blue damselfly species. This damselfly can be seen from early May in the recent warmer springs right through to early September.

As with all of blueish coloured damselflies identification to the untrained eye can be difficult. The species can usually be identified by the distinct black markings on the base of the abdomen which can generally be seen on segment two. These markings tend to be unique and are key to the successful identification of each species.

The male has a domed mushroom like black mark on segment two. The abdomen is blue with black markings but segments eight and nine appear all blue.

It can be difficult to identify the females which come in three colours, blue, a drab straw colour and a dull green. To be honest it is best to identify the females when in the presence of the males of the species.