New species for North Wales

12/08/2024

The Small Red-eyed Damselfly (Erythromma viridulum) is now breeding in North Wales! A healthy breeding population has been found at Parc Menai in Bangor.

The species has been gradually expanding its range in Britain; however, the Bangor population is a long way from any other known population. The Damselfly may have arrived at the pond via accidental introduction; for example, as eggs brought in with pond plants. Another possibility is that this is one of many populations in North Wales yet to be discovered. For any resident or holidaying dragonfly spotters in North Wales this is a species to keep an eye out for.

Well done to Jonni Price, Richard Gallon, Allan Brandon for their find.

Image: Male Erythromma viridulum by Pam Taylor