Broad-bodied Chaser

Description

Very broad, ‘fat’ dragonfly.

Male: Blue abdomen with yellow spots on the side.

Female and immature males: Golden-brown abdomen with paler spots on the sides.

 

 

Click on an image to enlarge it.

Where to See

Click here for the map
Latin NameLibellula depressa
Habitat

Usually found at ponds and small lakes.

May be the first to colonise new ponds.

Status & Distribution

Widespread and common throughout southern England and Wales.

Similar Species

Its broad appearance separates it from the other Chaser and Skimmer Dragonflies.

Species GroupDragonflies
Identification Notes
  • Length: 39-48mm
  • Very broad flat abdomen.
  • Wing bases are dark brown.
  • Males: blue abdomen with yellow edges.
  • Females: golden-brown abdomen with pale edges.
  • Immature adults: similar to females.
  • Regularly returns to the same low perch after swift flights along the pond margins.
Flight PeriodBroad-bodied Chaser
Larval Information

Skimmers and Chasers have a squat, spider-like body-shape, a square back to the head and small eyes.

Mask jaws more deeply serrated than in other similar Chaser and Skimmer species.

Eyes point upwards.

Similar Species

Scarce Chaser
Four-spotted Chaser
Black-tailed Skimmer