A
medium-large (57 - 66mm), colourful migrant preferring well-vegetated
shallow still waters which mostly dry out during
summer.. A frequent visitor to the Thames basin in
summer. As yet has been unproven as a breeding
species, although mating pairs have been observed.
In my limited experience males congregate with
little aggression in much the same way as Aeshna
mixta. Often seen flying over a large area at head
height or above, or patrolling and hovering a
small section of pond among others.
They
also perch for long periods on the tall reed
stems, seemingly undisturbed by human presence.
Indeed, the above specimen stayed around long
enough for several photographers to grab their
fill/
I've only noticed a couple of females
flying through in much the same way as the male.
Coupling has been observed as they enter the
territories of the males.
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