Quick IdentificationBlack Darter (Sympetrum danae)
Male Black Darter
Quick ID Guide
Welcome to my quick identification guide of the Black Darter.
These graphics are meant as a guide to the key identifying features of both the male and the female dragonflies.
The text section has been kindly written & supplied by Mr Ken Crick.
For a more complete species description, follow the link below to the Black Darter narrative.
This small darter is almost entirely black along its upper surface. The central black band on the thorax flank encloses three yellow spots. There are yellow markings on the flanks of the thorax and abdomen. Abdominal segments 3 to 5 contract and expand to form a club-like appearance. As the males age the yellow markings darken, very old males being all black.
Female Black Darter
Alternatively follow the link to the main species page.
Not the species you were looking for.
All of the images and graphics are by Chris Brooks.
Are predominantly yellow with a black under body. The upper surface of the thorax is centrally marked with a black isosceles triangle, the base of which is just behind the eyes. The base of the each wing has a small area suffused with saffron.
Chris Brooks Photography
(www.dragonfly-images.co.uk)
