A large (78mm) and active dragonfly preferring well-vegetated standing
water but may be found along canals and rivers.
Males are very aggressive towards other
dragonflies sharing their territory, although,
contrary to popular belief, several may share the same pond and set up
individual territories. They usually follow a
predictive path, retreating swiftly to the start
of their patrol before gradually surveying their
territory in short, slow bursts, frequently
hovering against the wind.
Females are
often seen ovipositing into emergent plants,
preferably away from inquisitive males and often
under cloudy conditions. They spend the majority
of their time away from water in meadows and
clearings, hunting efficiently and repeatedly over
a territory.
They are especially nervous
while coupled, easily disturbed and a stealth
challenge for photographers. Despite being one of
our most common large dragonflies, they always
provide a magnificent spectacle and are true
masters of their element.
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