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Winter Damselfly

(Scientific Name: Sympecma fusca)



Male Sympecma fusca by António A Gonçalves
Male Sympecma fusca by António Gonçalves
Female Sympecma fusca by Rovanto
Female Sympecma fusca by Rovanto
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Species Information:


Length: 38mm

The Winter Damselfly is related to the Emeralds but is dull coloured and easily overlooked. The body colour is pale brown with darker markings on the upper surface.



Habitat:


On the continent, it breeds in small, still pools and may be found in brackish waters.



Status & Distribution:


In December 2008 a confirmed specimen was found in Tonna, near Neath, South Wales. This is the first British mainland record although the species has been recorded from the Channel Islands. Unlike almost all other European species, it overwinters as an adult.



Similar Species:


Could possibly be confused with immature female damselflies of other species.