Migrant Hawker (Aeshna mixta)

Migrant Hawker

This hawker is one of the later dragonflies to emerge, appearing in late July to early August and can be seen on the wing into October. It is also one of the smallest hawker dragonflies in the UK.

This was once, as its name suggests a very rare migrant to the United Kingdom but it has now become very well established in the south and east of England. It is now gradually extending its range north west-wards year on year.

This is perhaps the most common of the Hawker Dragonflies within its specified range and can often be observed in quite large numbers.

This hawker favours well vegetated lakes ponds, canals but can also be seen on slow flowing water.

The male has vibrant blue abdominal spots throughout its length and a yellow triangle on segment two. Its eyes are steel blue and the wings clear with black costa's.

The thorax is brown with two small yellow antehumeral stripes.

The female is mainly brown in colour with yellow spots on its abdomen. It eyes are brown and the wings are clear. Immature specimens are duller in colour with lilac abdominal markings.

Photographic Overview - The Migrant Hawker

All of my images are taken in handheld mode without the use of any camera support and this overview is written with that in mind.

This can be one of the more obliging hawkers to photograph and some really good close up shots are possible. Both sexes are approachable; however encounters with females are somewhat rarer, so once located do not miss your opportunity.

To be honest there are few compositional issues and once located a subject will tolerate all types of shots from all angles. Top down shots require only a moderate depth of field setting; however if you are experimenting with other angles then maximise the setting to retain focus on the wing tips. In bright light some digital camera's will not faithfully reproduce the blue on the abdomen, the solution is to alter the angle of your shot.

These images were obtained by stealth and patience alone, no other non photographic techniques were used. I hope you have enjoyed browsing and that you'll return again soon.