A
voracious predator that will even eat other dragonflies, the
Golden-ringed dragonfly is the UK's longest species. It can be found
around acidic streams in moorland and heathland habitats.
About
The
Golden-ringed dragonfly is a very large dragonfly that is on the wing
from May to September. It is a dragonfly of small, acidic streams in
moorland and heathland, and may be found away from its breeding sites.
The female of this species is the UK's longest dragonfly because of her
long ovipositor. Golden-ringed dragonflies are voracious predators,
feeding on large insects, such as damselflies, other dragonflies, wasps,
beetles and bumblebees. They are fast, agile and powerful flyers.How to identify
Both
sexes of the Golden-ringed dragonfly are black, with yellow bands along
the body and bright-green eyes. Females are longer and thinner than the
males, who display a 'waisted' appearance.Distribution
Found in West Scotland, Cumbria, Southern England, and Wales.Did you know?
The larvae of the
Golden-ringed dragonfly live buried at the bottom of streams, ambushing
prey as it passes by. They grow very slowly and may spend as long as
five years in the water before they emerge to turn into a dragonfly.
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