Male. Taken in the Brenne, France on June 24th 2010. Click image for larger version.
(1/800th sec at F11. Approx 2x life size.)
Male. Taken in Vienne, France on June 29th 2010. Click image for larger version.
(1/800th sec at F11. Approx 2x life size.)

© David Hastings

Description

Wingspan: 46 - 66 mm; Body length: 36 - 45 mm
 
This is essentially an African species that extends into Europe. The all-red male is becoming an increasingly common sight further north. It occurs as a vagrant in southern England, where it was first recorded in 1995.
 
All all ages the wings are clear, with a large amber patch at the hindwing base. There is no black on the legs, head or thorax. There are no other similar species.
 
It will utilise almost any open, stagnant water, including rice paddies and brackish lagoons. The flight period is from mid-June to early September in northern Europe.

Sightings

29-Jun-2010	:	Vienne, France
26-Jun-2010	:	The Brenne, France
24-Jun-2010	:	The Brenne, France