For many the Golden-ringed Dragonfly is a real favourite. Stunningly beautiful, sleek and efficient without the aggressive tendencies of the Emperor; choosing only to do battle with its own kind.
Every July I look forward to spending a few hours at Crockford where I can just relax and take in the action at the basin, or more often choosing to explore upstream for quieter moments and engaging activity.
At least once a year I’ll explore the other side of the road, or rummage around the flushes leading down to Hatchet Pond. All of these locations contain Golden-ringed, Southern, Small Red and pretty much everything else you’ll find at Crockford Bottom; it just takes a little more effort.
Unusually I find myself in the situation of needing only a couple of species to complete my Hampshire list so now I can choose to indulge a little more without chasing rainbows, although I will be making the effort to add a few of the UK rarities over the next couple of months.
In the meantime I’m going to enjoy some of my favourite New Forest species at some of my favourite New Forest locations.
