Willow Emerald Damselfly

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.

Recent colonist. A very few twentieth century records, but recorded in numbers from southeast Suffolk during 2009, with outlying sites in southeast Norfolk and north Essex. In 2010 again present in these areas, with additional records from south Essex and north Kent.

May be confused with other emerald Damselflies.

Look for:

• Pale pterostigma (wing spots)
• Pale spur on the side of the thorax.

• Length: Male: 42-47mm; Female: 39-44mm
• Pale pterostigma (wing spots)
• Pale spur on the side of the thorax.
• Male: Dark metallic green with pale anal appendages.
• Female: Dark metallic green with dark ovipositor.