Very similar to the more common Blue-tailed Damselfly.
Male: mostly black with a small blue patch at the end of the abdomen.
Female: mostly black and green-brown on the underside. Immature females bright orange.
Click on an image to enlarge it.
| Species Group | Damselflies |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ischnura pumilio |
| Status & Distribution | Listed as Endangered in A review of the Red List status of the Odonata of Great Britain 2026. In England, its range stretches as far north as Liverpool; it is scarce across most of its English range apart from in Cornwall and the New Forest National Park. It is scarce in North and Mid Wales, with most breeding colonies located in the South. The species is absent from Scotland. |
| Habitat | Usually found in shallow wetland sites such as bog pools or slow flowing water, fed by seepages and flushes. It appears to prefer early successional habitats with minimal vegetation, although some emergent plants are required at breeding sites. A common feature of most sites is a degree of habitat disturbance, which maintains bare substrate, and the openness of the vegetation. |
| Flight Period |  |
| Adult Identification |
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| Larval Information | No spotting on the back of the head. Caudal lamellae have no markings. No dark banding on the legs (distinguishes it from Blue-tailed Damselfly). |
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