Ruddy Darter (Sympetrum sanguineum)

The Ruddy Darter

This Darter can be locally common and can be seen in quite large numbers when a suitable breeding site has been found.

It is restricted to south & east of the United Kingdom as well as being quite common in Ireland.

The Ruddy Darter is a late season species and can be seen on the wing from late June until October. However it is at its best in late July and August, when mature and before the wings become tatty.

They prefer shallow areas of still water with well vegetated margins.

This species could be confused with the Common Darter but is distinguishable by the darker eyes and the abdomen that is a much deeper pillar box red. The other main key identifying feature is that the legs are all black and lack the light central line of the Common vareity.

Females are far less common & are straw coloured with black abdominal markings. Its black legs are once again the key identitying feature from other similar species.

Locating a suitable female subject to photograph may be far more challenging.

Photographic Overview - The Ruddy Darter

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 is a restless little dragonfly which tends to perch in dense vegetation and for short periods of duration. Approaching a subject can be frustrating as they are very easily disturbed, therefore the use of a camera support is not really feasible.

As with all darters there are depth of field issues owing to their habit of perching with the wings pushed forwards at 45 degrees, therefore side view shots are the best in my opinion. Use the widest depth of field possible, with a shutter speed that will still allow hand held photography (about 1/250th of a second). Some sacrifice may have to be made on the depth of focusing but the rear wings will generally be hidden behind the body.

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.