Hairy dragonfly | Reserves and species

Scientific Name:

Brachrytron pratense

The hairy dragonfly is a medium-sized hawker found around waterbodies with plenty of different plants: ditches in grazing marshes, gravel pits and canals are particularly good spots to look. The earliest dragonfly to emerge in the UK, it is on the wing during May and June. Hawkers are the largest and fastest flying dragonflies; they catch their insect-prey mid-air and can hover and fly backwards.

How to identify:

The hairy dragonfly is mostly black in colour. The male has pale blue pear-shaped spots all along the body, blue eyes and broad lime-green patches on the thorax. The female has yellowish spots and brownish eyes. If seen well, the short hairs all over the body make the hairy dragonfly unmistakeable. Also on the wing earlier than other hawker dragonflies.

Where to find it:

A local species, found in small pockets of southern and eastern England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

How people can help:

The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of all kinds of wildlife, including the hairy dragonfly. But these precious sites are under threat from development, drainage and climate change. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife happenings, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities and be helping local wildlife along the way.

Statistics:

Length: 5.5cm

Conservation status:

Uncommon.

Did you know?:

The hairy dragonfly was, until recently, a very rare species in the UK, found only on the most pristine grazing marshes and wetlands. It has recently expanded its range, possibly as a result of climate change.

Seasons:

Spring

Summer

When to see

Start date:

May

End date:

June

Image: