Common Darter (Sympetrum striolatum)

Size: - Approximate Length 37m - Wing Span 57mm

Male: - The colouration of the abdomen can be some what variable, from light red to an orange tinged with red and straw. The cooler the ambient air temperature the more likely the abdomen is to appear dull orange. The legs of both sexes are black with a yellow band along their length. The thorax upper surface is brown with some individuals exhibiting poorly defined antehumeral stripes. There are two large blue / yellow patches on each side of the thorax.

Quite close observation is required to note the black  

This narrative was kindly written and supplied by Mr Ken Crick

All Photography by Chris Brooks

Click on the thumb-nails to enlarge the images.

line running in front of and between the eyes. For this species the line terminates at the eye and does not continue downwards as in other similar Sympetrum.

Female: - Has a brown thorax with yellow side patches, straw coloured abdomen with black side darts. As with the male diffuse antehumeral stripes may be present but the obvious diagnostic feature is the yellow longitudinal line on the outer surface of the black legs.

Status: - Common and widespread except in parts of northern England and most of Scotland.

Habitat: - Catholic in its tastes, it makes use of a wide range of still water habitats including ponds, lakes, flooded mineral extraction pits, bog pools, canals and calm waters of slow flowing rivers and streams.

Flight period: - Mid June to the end of October.

General: - Males guard a localized territory from a high perch to which they return after each rush forth to drive off intruders. Both sexes frequently sun bathe in sheltered spots either on the ground or on vertical or horizontal surfaces such as fence posts and rails.

Copulation takes place while perched and in a relatively exposed position. The activity takes approximately 10 minutes and with care is readily photographed. The activity of laying eggs takes place in tandem and in flight. The male executes a downward movement of the abdomen lowering the female so her ovipositor makes contact with the water thus releasing the eggs. This activity is repeated many times. Females will egg lay alone and appear to exercise more discretion over suitable sites than when in tandem.