This species has a dark body (black in males and brown in females) with pairs of spots running down its abdomen. In males the spots are blue, and in females green. Males can also be distinguished by two narrow yellow stripes which run down the thorax. A striking yellow colour also edges the wings of both sexes. Similar in appearance to the Southern Hawker, the Common Hawker lacks its distinctive green thorax stripes
Latin name: Aeshna juncea
Size: Up to 75mm long
Overview
Along with the Emperor Dragonfly, this is one of our largest species, which zips about moorland or heathland pools. It can also be seen in gardens with large, clear water ponds with plenty of submerged plants or boggy areas. Its predatory larvae hide amongst vegetation where they ambush passing prey. After a period of at least two years, the larvae emerge at night and become adults. Adults quickly become accomplished aviators, buzzing about along tree lines from June to October.
In the garden
Can be seen all over the UK but most likely to be seen in heathland habitats. Never fear though, a suitable habitat can be created around your garden pond if you add a boggy area and plenty of submerged aquatic plants.