Black Darter (Sympetrum danae)

The Black Darter

This darter is easily identified, by it very dark colouring when fully mature.

The males are almost completely black with few yellow markings; where as the females retain much more of the yellow colouring with black markings.

The Black Darter can be seen on the wing from mid July through to mid September.

This is predomiantly a northern species; but it also has strongholds in the south and south west of the UK.

It likes boggy / peaty ground and is found on pools & seepages with plenty of vegetation. This darter is fond of grassy areas where it may be found perching on the long stems. It perches with its wings pushed forwards at about 45 degrees.