Azure Damselfly (Coenagrion puella)
These are known as one of the 'Blue Damselflies' of which Somerset has 7 species: Common, Variable, Azure, Blue-tailed, Red-eyed, Small Red-eyed and White-legged. Identifying these species can be very complicated as they all have similar features and all have colour variations and changes in colour as they age.
One of the more common damselflies in our county, appearing in various habitats.
Males are blue and black damselflies.
Females are blue and black or green and black and have two forms; 'Dark Form', which has a predominately black abdomen, 'Blue Form', which has a blue and black abdomen.
Immature ones can have a pink or white thorax.
Variable Damselflies are the hardest to identify them against.
Male
Male
Male
Male (young with white thorax)
Male
Male
Male
Male (showing key features)
Female
Female
Female (with a bit more blue on Abdomen than normal)
Female (Blue Form)
Female (Blue Form - turning green)
Female
Female
Mating
In Tandem
Want to See
It can be seen at various spots around the county, but by far the best area is the Somerset Levels. On higher ground, like the Mendips, they do come out later than on the levels due to the altitude and so can generally be seen for a long period of time.
Especially Good
RSPB Ham Wall - Route 1 (Mid May / June)
SWT Westhay (Mid May / June)
Priddy Pools (Mid June through July)
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