Lesser Emperor (Anax parthenope)
Prior to 2024, this was a relatively rare species in Somerset. Since then, its numbers have increased significantly on the Somerset Levels, particularly on the Avalon Marshes and especially at RSPB Ham Wall.
Smaller than the Emperor, the Lesser Emperor has a dull abdomen with a blue saddle at the front, and a brownish thorax.
Males have a noticeable waist at the front of the abdomen.
Females lack this waist, and their blue saddle tends to fade earlier with age than that of males.
Females lack this waist, and their blue saddle tends to fade earlier with age than that of males.
Male (Immature)
Male (Immature)
Male (Immature)
Male
Male
Male
Male (abdomen gores darker with age)
Male
Male
Male
Male
Male
Elderly Female
Egg Laying in Tandem
Egg Laying in Tandem
Egg Laying in Tandem
In Tandem
In Tandem
Want to See
It is becoming common on Avalon Marshes from 2024, especially RSPB Ham Wall.
Likes wetlands and ponds.
Especially Good
RSPB Ham Wall - Route 1 (July)
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