The  Insects of the British Isles

by Dave Hatton

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ODONTA - ANISOPTERA - LIBELLULIDAE

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FOUR-SPOTTED CHASER  (Libellula Quadrimaculata) Linnaeus

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PICTURE: Seen at Rimac on the Theddlethorpe Dunes, Lincolnshire, July 2011.

DISTRIBUTION: This species is widespread and common throughout most of the British Isles.

WING SPAN: 32mm to 40mm.             BODY LENGTH: 27mm to 32mm .              STATUS: Resident.

FLIGHT PERIOD: This species often emerges in early May, sometimes earlier in advanced spring weather. They are on the wing right through the summer into late August, or early September.

LARVAL PERIOD: The eggs which are contained within a gelatinous mass, are laid into the water by a flick of the tail. The male is usually in attendance to protect the egg laying female. Hatching occurs after about four weeks, the larvae live amongst plant debris. Emergence takes place during daylight after two, or possibly three years.

HABITAT: This species favours still waters, especially acidic heathland pools. It is found in smaller numbers however in a large range of both coastal and inland pools of all sizes. Some times it can be found in slow moving streams.

FOOD PLANT/S: Various species of invertebrates.                                          

SIMILAR SPECIES: The Scarce Chaser, and the female of the Broad-bodied Chaser have a similar appearance.

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