Ruddy Darter (Sympetrum sanguineum) | Species | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(1/200th sec at F13. Approx 2.25x life size.) 
(1/200th sec at F14. Approx 2.25x life size.) 
(1/320th sec at F14. Approx 2x life size.) 
(1/320th sec at F14. Approx 2x life size.) 
(1/125th sec at F13. Approx 1.5x life size.) © David HastingsDescriptionWing span: 46-61mm; Body length: 34-39mmThis species is smaller than the Common Darter. It has entirely black legs. An intense orange colouration can be seen at the very base of the wings. The pterostigma is brown. There are usually two prominent black marks on S8 and S9. The males become blood-red with maturity with a red frons and red-brown thorax. There is a very noticeable constriction of the abdomen around S4, giving a club-shaped appearence. Females have a ochre yellow abdomen and thorax. Older females may develop some red along the midline and segment boundaries of the abdomen. It prefers waters with lush marshy vegetation, but generally avoids running or acidic waters. It is most common in eastern and southern England, but is extending its range north and westwards. Territories are usually established slightly back from the water's edge. Mating lasts a few minutes and usually occurs while perched and away from water. The large eggs are laid in vegetation or damp mud, either with the pair in tandem, or with the male in close attendance. They only hatch when covered with water. Larval development is rapid and adults usually emerge after a year. The main flight period is June and July, but individuals can persist into November. Sightings
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