A medium-sized (40-44mm) dragonfly found in heathland ponds and streams,
often perched among the surrounding heather or grasses.
Males set up small territories and guard these from
a favourite perch. They are aggressive, even against
potential predators like the Golden-ringed and
competition is swiftly dealt with.
Females
oviposit into the banks of streams with the successful
male guarding them and can be easily found when seeking
refuge away from water among the undergrowth.
Once paired they fly a short distance away from the
hustle & bustle of the water.
During emergence they can be seen in
swarms on the heaths of the New Forest.
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