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Common Darter

Sympetrum striolatum

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39.7165, -3.31263

Field Notes

Description:

Looks to me more like a Plain Darter, S. vulgatum, but that species is only listed at the far end of the Mediterranean. Desert Darter, S. sinaiticum, is also similar but not found this far inland?

Habitat:

Scrubland near woods

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (2)
John Curd
PS: S. vulgatum females also show a VERY prominent vulvar scale, sticking down almost at 90 degrees. This vulvar scale is very S. striolatum.
John Curd
Yes, Malcolm, elderly female Common Darter (Sympetrum striolatum) it is. The abdominal side markings are classic. As you say, females of both S. vulgatum and S. sinaiticum are very similar but S. sinaiticum would show relatively strong dark marks on the high side of S2&3 (not present here) and S. vulgatum would show quite strong black descending the side of the frons (also not here). You took the right pictures. ;-)

Spotted for Missions

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Global Dragonflies & Damselflies
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Biodiversidad en España/Spain
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Mission WILD
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2016 Best Wildlife Photo
Photographed
PublishedOctober 7, 2016

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