Southern Hawker

Description

Length: 70mm

Flight Period: June to October (sometimes individuals in May and November)

A large, inquisitive Hawker usually seen individually. It may fly quite close to investigate observers. The spots on segments S8-10 are joined, unlike other Hawkers. The ante-humeral stripes are broad and strongly coloured. The costa is dark and there is an elongated triangular mark on S2.

Male: brightly maked on a dark background, usually apple green except for S8-10, which are pale blue. Occasionally, all pale blue marked individuals are seen.

Female: brown with bright geen markings.

Where to See

Latin NameAeshna cyanea
Habitat

Breeds in water line vegetation in well-vegetated, small ponds, often in garden ponds. Hunts well away from water and may be found hawking woodland rides well into the evening.

Status & Distribution

Very common in southern and central England and Wales, more local elsewhere (vagrant only to Ireland).

Similar Species

Similar in appearence to other Hawkers but the bands on S9 and S10 and the broad ante-humerals are distinctive.

Species GroupDragonflies
Identification Notes
  • Look for 'headlights' on the top of the thorax and blue coloured bands along S9 and S10 on male
  • Prefers non acidic waters
  • Very inquisitive dragonfly, will often come close
  • July – October

Similar Species

Hairy Dragonfly
Southern Migrant Hawker
Common Hawker
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