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Emerald Damselfly

(Scientific Name: Lestes sponsa)



Female Lestes sponsa by David Kitching
Female Lestes sponsa by David Kitching
Male Lestes sponsa by David Kitching
Male Lestes sponsa by David Kitching
Female Lestes sponsa by David Kitching
Female Lestes sponsa by David Kitching
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Species Information:


Length: 38mm

This damselfly is metallic green. The male develops a blue pruinescence on segments 1, 2, 9 and 10 as it matures. The female is thicker bodied than the male with no blue pruinescence. The ovipositor just reaches the tip of segment 10. The Emerald Damselfly rests with its wings spread at about 45° to the body. The elongated pterostigma is dark brown to black.



Habitat:


Still waters, may be found in pond side rushes or reeds.



Status & Distribution:


Locally common throughout Britain and Ireland.



Similar Species:


Other Lestes species are similar. See Scarce Emerald Damselfly for distinguishing characters.

Scarce Emerald Damselfly Photo

Lestes dryas

Scarce Emerald Damselfly