Downy Emerald (Cordulia aenea)
A more unusual one for Somerset and the only Emerald we have in the county.
When young has an amazing bronze/green metallic colouration on the abdomen/thorax. This dulls with age when they get more striking green eyes.
Males have a waist at the front of the abdomen and a slightly clubbed tail at the end.
Females have no waist and have a more uniform abdomen.
Most of the images below are photographed at Lower Moor Farm NR, Cotswolds where they are numerous.
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male (aging)
Female
Female (Teneral - Damaged Wings)
Emerging
Emerging
Emerging
Emerging
Emerging
Male (Teneral awaiting first flight)
Male (Teneral)
Want to See
Likes ponds and still water sources with trees at the edge where they like resting.
Priddy Ponds in the Mendips is the only consistent known location for this species.
Especially Good
Priddy Ponds - Mendips (Mid June / July)
-----------------------------------