©Paul Blair

Golden-ringed dragonfly

A voracious predator that will even eat other dragonflies, the golden-ringed dragonfly is the UK's longest species. It can be found around acidic streams in moorland and heathland habitats.

Scientific name

Cordulegaster boltonii

When to see

May to September

Species information

Statistics

Length: 7.4-8.4cm

Conservation status

Common.

Habitats

About

The golden-ringed dragonfly is a very large dragonfly that is on the wing from May to September. It is a dragonfly of small, acidic streams in moorland and heathland, and may be found away from its breeding sites. The female of this species is the UK's longest dragonfly because of her long ovipositor. Golden-ringed dragonflies are voracious predators, feeding on large insects, such as damselflies, other dragonflies, wasps, beetles and bumblebees. They are fast, agile and powerful flyers.

How to identify

Both sexes of the golden-ringed dragonfly are black, with yellow bands along the body and bright-green eyes. Females are longer and thinner than the males, who display a 'waisted' appearance.

Distribution

Found in West Scotland, Cumbria, Southern England, and Wales.

Did you know?

The larvae of the golden-ringed dragonfly live buried at the bottom of streams, ambushing prey as it passes by. They grow very slowly and may spend as long as five years in the water before they emerge to turn into a dragonfly.