Golden Slumbers

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.

Golden-ringed Dragonfly - male
Golden-ringed Dragonfly – male

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.

Golden-ringed Dragonfly - male
Golden-ringed Dragonfly – male

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.

Golden-ringed Dragonfly - female
Golden-ringed Dragonfly – female

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.

Golden-ringed Dragonfly - male
Golden-ringed Dragonfly – male

In the meantime I’m going to enjoy some of my favourite New Forest species at some of my favourite New Forest locations.

Golden-ringed Dragonfly - female
Golden-ringed Dragonfly – female