Southern Damselfly (Coenagrion mercuriale)

Southern Damselfly

This is another fairly rare damselfly in the United Kingdom and can be very localised in its distribution.

However if a suitable breeding site is found then this species can be fairly abundant.

It is quite common in the New Forest area of Hampshire but has other very localised populations in the UK, including Anglesey & Pembrokeshire.

This is a species of slow flowing streams typically of heathland moorland and similar habitat. The species prefers the low level vegetation associated with these areas.

It can be seen on the wing from late May / early June through to late July.

In relation to males, it can only really be confused with the Common Blue but it is noticably smaller and has very distinctive black markings on its abdomen (segment 2) which are unique to this damselfly, close inspection is needed to avoid confusion.

The females, as with all damselflies need closer examination to tell them apart. The female Southern has blue segmental rings near to the abdomens tip. It is only likely to be seen in the close company of the Small Red Damselfly which has red rings. To be sure identification is best made whilst in the males company.

Photographic Overview - The Southern Damselfly

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. In addition my primary aim is to achieve the whole of the subject in focus.

The Southern Damselfly has quite an active habit but readily settles on low vegetation for relatively short periods, so be quick when taking your images or you'll have to start your approach again. It often settles near to the ground so be prepared to spend some time on your knees or even lower.

There are few compositional issues and excellent side on images can be obtained with little difficulty. They settle with their wings fully closed, parallel to their bodies so a moderate depth of field setting will suffice. As with all blue damselflies the colouring can come out rather pale in bright light. This seems to be a problem associated with some digital cameras and may be eliminated by altering 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.