One of two species of damselfly in Britain to have
obviously coloured wings, the Banded Demoiselle is a
large (45mm) damselfly preferring slow-flowing lowland
streams and rivers.
Adult males are easily identified by the large
blue 'thumbprint' on the wings. They establish small
territories along their chosen stream which they defend
from bank-side perches.
Females choose the
male with the best territories and the most convincing
dance.
Numbers can be very high at prime
locations and provide one of nature's great spectacles.
CSometimes occur together with Beautiful Demoiselles
where females need careful observation to tell apart.
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