Four-spotted chaser

Four-spotted Chaser

©Ross Hoddinott/2020VISION

Four-spotted chaser

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Enw gwyddonol: Libellula quadrimaculata
The Four-spotted chaser is easily recognised by the two dark spots on the leading edge of each wing - giving this species its name. It can be seen on heathlands and near ponds and lakes.

Top facts

Stats

Length: 3.9-4.8cm

Conservation status

Common.

Pryd i'w gweld

May to September

Ynghylch

The Four-spotted chaser is a medium-sized, fairly broad-bodied dragonfly. It is on the wing from May to September, sometimes even into October. It is commonly found on heathland and moorland, as well as around ponds, lakes and in woods. Four-spotted Chasers are active dragonflies, spending a lot of time hawking over water for insect-prey or to mark out their territories. They mate on the wing; the female then hovers over the water, dipping the tip of her abdomen into drop her eggs on to vegetation below the surface.

What to look for

Both sexes of the Four-spotted chaser are golden-brown, getting darker towards the tip of the body, and with yellow spots along the sides. Two dark spots at the front edge of each wing give this dragonfly its name and an easily recognisable appearance.

Where to find

Widespread.

Roeddech chi yn gwybod?

Enormous migrating swarms of Four-spotted chasers have been recorded in Europe.