Welcome to Hampshire Dragonflies
My name is Paul Ritchie, and I am an amateur photographer who is passionate about dragonflies.
Over the past decade, I have developed a deep fascination and respect for these beautiful insects. I have spent countless hours hunting and photographing them in their natural habitats. Fortunately, we are fortunate to have a diverse selection of species in Hampshire, with the New Forest being particularly nationally recognised.
My passion extends beyond Hampshire. Indeed, to limit myself to that region would be churlish and prevent me from observing dragonflies on the heaths and rivers of Dorset, Berkshire, and Surrey, as well as the flooded plains of the Somerset Levels and the fens of Norfolk.
My ultimate goal is to establish a comprehensive understanding of the most suitable dragonfly locations in the United Kingdom. This knowledge will enable me to share my discoveries with other enthusiasts, allowing them to enjoy these captivating creatures.
My ultimate goal is to establish a comprehensive understanding of the most suitable dragonfly locations in the United Kingdom. This knowledge will enable me to share my discoveries with other enthusiasts, allowing them to enjoy these captivating creatures.
Within this resource, you will find photographic documentation, detailed descriptions of habitats, and behavioural information for the 40 species of dragonflies that inhabit the United Kingdom. Given the abundance of identification information readily available through books, websites, and other sources, I have focused on species behavioural patterns to enhance identification in the field.
Additionally, you will discover a comprehensive library listing 49 prime locations for observing and photographing these magnificent insects. These locations encompass a diverse range of habitats, including moorland ponds, streams, and flushes, as well as lowland lakes, fens, and rivers. Each location offers its own unique environment to explore and appreciate. Whether you are a naturalist, enthusiast, photographer, or simply curious about these fascinating creatures, these pages will assist you in achieving a more enriching experience.
Additionally, you will discover a comprehensive library listing 49 prime locations for observing and photographing these magnificent insects. These locations encompass a diverse range of habitats, including moorland ponds, streams, and flushes, as well as lowland lakes, fens, and rivers. Each location offers its own unique environment to explore and appreciate. Whether you are a naturalist, enthusiast, photographer, or simply curious about these fascinating creatures, these pages will assist you in achieving a more enriching experience.
Dragonflies, semi-aquatic insects, require water for reproduction, leading to the assumption that they are primarily found in freshwater habitats. However, their distribution is more extensive, and when not reproducing, they are often observed hunting in insect-rich meadows, woodlands, and clearings.
Almost any unpolluted freshwater body, ranging from a small garden pond to rivers, streams, and lakes, has the potential to host dragonflies. The majority of species exhibit specific habitat preferences. Some prefer slow-flowing rivers, while others thrive in fast-moving streams, bogs, and marshes. Even the most polluted and muddy dog-bathing ponds can serve as hosts for our diverse species.
Dragonflies are sun-seekers, and warm, sunny days are optimal for observing them. In overcast or dull conditions, they typically roost and hunt away from water sources. During storms, they seek refuge in the undergrowth, trees, or bushes.