Anax imperator - Emperor dragonfly

The largest of the hawker dragonflies found in Britain, this is a common species in soutrern England and Wales.

The male has a bright blue body, while the female, seen above laying eggs on emergent vegetation, has a greenish tinge, becoming gradually bluer when old.

Mainly seen over ponds, canals and slow-flowing streams, this beautiful insect flies for long periods without resting, which makes it a difficult dragonfly to study.

Top of page...