Willow Emerald Damselfly

Recent colonist; first recorded in significant numbers in East Anglia in 2009. Since then it has rapidly expanded its range and can now be found as far north as North Yorkshire and as far west as Warwickshire.

Usually near ponds, canals or other still water with overhanging trees. Willow Emerald Damselfly has a characteristic habit of spending much time up in the trees. The eggs are laid into the bark of willow or alder.

• Length: Male: 42-47mm; Female: 39-44mm
• Metallic green
• Pale pterostigma (wing spots) outlined in black.
• Green spur on the side of the thorax.
• Male: very long abdomen with pale anal appendages with black tips.
• Female: dark ovipositor.

Lestes larvae have a long abdomen and large caudal lamellae.

Mask is not long and racket shaped like in other Lestes species.

May be confused with other emerald damselfly species.

Willow Emerald Damselflies can be distinguished by:

• Large, pale pterostigma (wing spots).
• Prominent green spur on the side of the thorax.
• No blue colouration.