Northern Emerald

Breeds in moorland bogs and pools, often with much Sphagnum.

Adults patrol wet meadows and open areas in pine woods or on moors with scattered trees.

Uncommon. Restricted to north-west Scotland and south-west Ireland.

Downy Emerald

• hairier thorax

Brilliant Emerald

• brighter metallic coloration

Northern Emerald Management Profile

• Length: 50mm
• Bright green eyes.
• Metallic bronze-green abdomen.
• Male: waisted abdomen with calliper-like appendages at the end.
• Female: broader abdomen and a short vulvar scale.

Emerald Dragonfly larvae have a squat spider-like body-shape similar to Chaser, Skimmers and Darters, but significantly longer back legs.

Smallest Emerald Dragonfly larvae: 17-20 mm.

Very hairy.