©Paul Blair
Golden-ringed dragonfly
Scientific name: Cordulegaster boltonii
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.
Species information
Statistics
Length: 7.4-8.4cmConservation status
Common.
When to see
May to SeptemberAbout
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.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.