©Paul Blair
Golden-ringed dragonfly
A voracious predator that will even eat other dragonflies, the golden-ringed dragonfly is the UK's longest species. It can be found around acidic streams in moorland and heathland habitats.
Scientific name
Cordulegaster boltoniiWhen to see
May to SeptemberSpecies information
Category
Statistics
Length: 7.4-8.4cmConservation status
Common.
About
The golden-ringed dragonfly is a very large dragonfly that is on the wing from May to September. It is a dragonfly of small, acidic streams in moorland and heathland, and may be found away from its breeding sites. The female of this species is the UK's longest dragonfly because of her long ovipositor. Golden-ringed dragonflies are voracious predators, feeding on large insects, such as damselflies, other dragonflies, wasps, beetles and bumblebees. They are fast, agile and powerful flyers.How to identify
Both sexes of the golden-ringed dragonfly are black, with yellow bands along the body and bright-green eyes. Females are longer and thinner than the males, who display a 'waisted' appearance.Distribution
Found in West Scotland, Cumbria, Southern England, and Wales.In our area
The Golden-ringed Dragonfly is absent from the far east of Montgomeryshire, but is widely recorded elsewhere. Glaslyn and Llyn Mawr Nature Reserves are good places to look for it. Do let us know if you see one.