Vagrant Emperor

Description

Migratory species appearing at any time of year.

Male: Yellow-brown with a blue patch at the top of the abdomen.

Female: Yellow-brown with only a hint of blue colouration at the top of the abdomen.

 

 

 

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Where to See

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Species GroupDragonflies
Scientific NameAnax ephippiger
Status & Distribution

Rare long-distance migrant from Africa and the Middle East that has been sighted in increasing frequency in recent decades. Existing records are scattered across Britain but are most common on the coast.

Habitat

Breeds in small ponds and marshes and can tolerate brackish conditions.

Flight PeriodVagrant Emperor
Adult Identification
  • Length: 63mm
  • Brown eyes.
  • Yellow costa (leading wing vein).
  • Long, brown pterostigma (wing spots).
  • Brown body.
  • Male: blue patch on segment 2 near the top of the abdomen.
  • Female: only a hint of blue colouration on segment 2.
Similar Species

Lesser Emperor

  • Green eyes instead of brown.
  • More blue colouration on the abdomen.

Similar Species

Emperor Dragonfly
Lesser Emperor