Description

One of the most Common Darter species.

Male: blood-red, club-shaped abdomen.

Female: abdomen ochre-yellow with black markings; not club-shaped.

 

 

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Species GroupDragonflies
Scientific NameSympetrum sanguineum
Status & Distribution

Common across most of England apart from the south-west and the far north, although its distribution is expanding. Southerly and easterly distribution in Wales. The species reached Scotland in 2003 and has been found at a few southerly sites.

Habitat

Specialises in well vegetated ponds, lakes, canals etc.

Frequently in woodlands.

Will tolerate acidic waters.

Flight PeriodRuddy Darter
Adult Identification
  • Length: 34-36mm
  • Black legs.
  • Black “T” shaped marking on the back of the thorax.
  • Male: blood-red, club-shaped abdomen.
  • Female: abdomen ochre-yellow with black markings; not club-shaped.
  • Immature adults: Similar colouration to females.
Larval Information

Darters have a squat, spider-like body-shape and a head that tapers back to the thorax.

15-17mm.

Very similar to Common Darter but has shorter lateral abdominal spines on segment 9 (S9 lateral spines slightly shorter than the length of S9).

 

 

Similar Species

May be confused with other Darter species, the most common other species being the Common Darter.

Ruddy Darter can be distinguished by:

  • Black legs
  • Black line marking extends part way down the side on the frons (face).
  • Male: blood-red colouration and club-shaped abdomen.