Dragonflies at Iden Moat
9th June 2010, WednesdayHighlights of an idyllic hour at this 700-year-old historic site this afternoon were a male Emperor, a male Hairy Hawker, 2 Downy Emeralds and 2 Four-spotted Chasers. All of these were seen at close range from the same point, hunting along the edge of the ancient moat. The Emperor was working hard (and unsuccessfully) to chase the others off. Supporting cast included several bright blue male Azure Damselflies and rather few White-legged Damselflies (or Blue Featherlegs, a new name I rather like) – I saw only one pale blue adult male plus about 20 immatures, compared with 60+ on the same date in 2008, but I think they might just be late emerging this year, like many other insects. A Painted Lady also appeared briefly.