Variable Damselfly
Coenagrion pulchellum
Notable/Nb
By far the most uncommon of the blue/black damsels, but separated from the previous two species in the male by the second abdominal segment mark being a thick black 'U' shape with a descending stalk. The antehumeral stripes are commonly reduced to exclamation (!) marks. The typical female form is identifiable by having blue on the body, not green, and a mercury mark on the second abdominal segment. Variations in females are commonplace and great care must be taken in accurate identification.
This species has undergone a dramatic decline over recent years, almost certainly due to agricultural pressure causing loss of habitat, mainly the lowering of water tables and intensive dyke management. Currently it is known from only two areas, Baston and Thurlby Fens and Boultham Mere at Lincoln. The Boultham Mere colony is substantial and of national importance.
It is a rare and declining species nationally, with strongholds in the marsh areas of Somerset, Sussex, Kent and Norfolk. Recognised in the Lincolnshire Trust's Biodiversity Strategy report as a county endangered species.
Distribution map
Male
Female
