Description

A striking, black insect with yellow rings along the length of the abdomen.

The female is the UK’s longest dragonfly because of her long ovipositor.

Male: a slight club shape to the abdomen.

Female: more parallel sided and has a very long ovipositor.

 

 

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Species GroupDragonflies
Scientific NameCordulegaster boltonii
Status & Distribution

Widely distributed in Scotland, Wales, and north and west England.

Habitat

Breeds in acidic rivers and streams of all sizes. May be found away from its breeding habitat over heathland.

Flight PeriodGolden-ringed Dragonfly
Adult Identification
  • Length Male: 74mm
  • Length Female : 84mm
  • Distinctive yellow and black rings.
  • Bright green eyes that only meet at the top of the head.
  • Male: a slight club shape to the abdomen.
  • Female: more parallel sided and has a very long ovipositor.
Larval Information

Similar long body shape to Hawker but more robust and with a broader head.

Obvious setae (hairs).

Jagged jaws to the mask.

Threats
  • Climate change; increasing temperatures and erratic rainfall threaten the species bog pool habitat.
  • Ditch installation and drainage.
  • Peat cutting.
  • Forestation of the uplands.
Similar Species

Common Club-tail

  • much smaller
  • eyes are separate.