Common blue damselfly

Scientific name: Enallagma cyathigerum

Living up to its name the Common blue damselfly is both very common and very blue. It regularly visits gardens - try digging a wildlife-friendly pond to attract damselflies and dragonflies.

Species information

Statistics

Length: 3.2cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

April to September

About

The Common blue damselfly is our most common damselfly and can be found around almost any waterbody, or away from breeding sites in grassland and woodland. It is a regular visitor to gardens and is on the wing from April to September. The Common blue damselfly is an aggressive species: males will defend their females as they lay their eggs, both from their own kind and other species. As with other damselflies, when Common blues mate they form a 'mating wheel' in which the male clasps the female by the neck and she bends her body around to his reproductive organs.

How to identify

The male Common blue damselfly is pale blue with bands of black along the body; the female is either blue or dull green, with distinctive black 'torpedo' markings. To identify the small blue damselflies, of which there are seven species in the UK, it helps to concentrate on the pattern on the second segment of the males' abdomen, just behind the thorax. In the Common blue damselfly, this segment is blue with a black button mushroom-shaped mark.

Distribution

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

When dragonflies and damselflies first emerge they are often duller in colour, a state known as 'teneral', and it can take a few days for them to change into their brilliant hues. For example, Common blue damselflies are a pinkish-brown when they first emerge, turning sky-blue later on.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife news, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and will be helping local wildlife along the way. Encourage dragonflies and damselflies into your garden by having a wildlife-friendly pond. To find out more about gardening for wildlife, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.