News

A species of dragonfly, the Scarce Chaser (Libellula fulva) has been recorded for the first time in Herefordshire. This species has scattered localised populations concentrated in the southeast of the country, but it has been spreading steadily westward for a few years. Scarce Chasers are well established in Worcestershire, so it was only a matter of time before they showed up in Herefordshire.

The fantastic photograph above of an immature male was taken by Dave Taft, who was out for a walk last week with Jane Tavener when they spotted the dragonfly by the Cradley Brook near Mathon, just west of the Malvern Hills. The brook and surroundings provide great habitat for this and other dragonfly and damselfly species, which require good water quality and emergent vegetation, plus plenty of nearby trees and shrubs for adults to shelter in.

Interested in finding out more about dragonflies? The British Dragonfly Society has a brilliant website with plenty of information about British dragonflies and their habitats, projects and volunteering opportunities, as well as the latest dragonfly news and upcoming events.