Golden-ringed Dragonfly, Cordulegaster
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Size
Large; body length 55mm to 65mm.
Colour-patterning
Both sexes have an almost black ground colour with a conspicuous pair of yellow bands on the thorax behind the eyes and narrow, broken, yellow bands across the abdomen.
Behaviour
This dragonfly is an extremely strong flier, patrolling not only along the edges of streams and rivers but also over surrounding fields and along woodland rides. It frequently takes prolonged rests between flights, hanging from tree branches or other tall vegetation. With care, it can be closely approached. Females lay their eggs by probing deeply into the mud, sand and gravel of shallow moving water.
Where to look for it
Golden-ringed dragonflies are most commonly seen flying purposefully along the courses of rivers and streams. They are most often to be seen in the northern parts of Plymouth particularly in Forder Valley, Efford Marsh and Bircham Local Nature Reserves.
Distribution and status
The species is common and widespread in the north of the City and avoids the built up areas.
When to look for it
It is at its most numerous during June, July and August.
Similar species
Its large size and bright yellow markings make this species unmistakeable and unlikely to be confused with any other.