Emperor dragonflies (Anax imperator) are not rare in the UK; they are common and widespread, particularly in southern England and Wales. Since the 1990s, their population has expanded northwards by 56%, with sightings now occurring in Scotland. They are frequently found around large, well-vegetated ponds, lakes, and canals from June to September.
The emperor dragonfly is a very large, impressive dragonfly that is on the wing from June to August. It is a common species of large ponds and lakes, as well as canals and ditches, but is rarely found away from water.
The Brilliant Emerald is considered to be a nationally rare species. Habitats occupied in Scotland and in southeast England are only broadly similar: sheltered, standing or slow-flowing waters usually, but not always, edged with good tree cover.
The UK's largest dragonfly. The Emperor is the most territorial of all the hawker dragonflies. It emerges in late spring and flies almost continuously in the airspace above a water body. Its size, and its bright green and blue markings make it instantly recognisable.
One of the largest species in the UK, the emperor dragonfly measures 7.8cm long. Males are pale blue with a green thorax and black stripe along the body. Females are a slightly duller blue. Both have green-blue eyes and are recognised by their impressive size.
The good news is that they do not have a stinger, just teeth. If you happen to find that you have been bitten by a dragonfly, there is no cause for alarm, as their bite is not enough to break the skin. When it comes to our pets – dogs or cats – the same is to be true.
The emperor is common and widespread in the southern part of England and south Wales. They are never seen in high numbers but patrol across expanses of water as singletons. Emperors need still water to breed in and prefer a decent expanse of water such as lakes and large ponds.
In many cultures, dragonflies are seen as symbols of transformation, change, and adaptability. They are often associated with a sense of self-realization and the understanding of deeper meaning in life.
Good news: dragonflies don't bite humans! Their sharp jaws are only used for catching and munching on smaller insects. They're harmless to us - so no need to worry about those fierce-looking mandibles. Although if held in the hand, they will sometimes try to bite, but they won't be able to break your skin.
These are large flies which can give a painful bite. Adult horse flies feed on nectar and sometimes pollen but females require a blood meal for reproduction. Males lack the necessary mouth parts for blood feeding.
Having dragonflies as residents in your garden can provide numerous benefits: Natural pest control: Adults are fierce predators and feed on various pests like mosquitoes, flies, and gnats. Anything that eats mosquitoes is welcome in my yard! That said, they will eat some beneficial insects, too.
Wasps do have there own predators in the UK. These include dragonflies, robber flies, hornets, centipedes, and spiders and from the feathered kingdom twenty four varieties of birds are known to eat wasps including blackbirds, magpies, starlings.
The Hine's emerald dragonfly (Somatochlora hineana), also known as Ohio emerald, Hine's bog skimmer and hook-tipped emerald, is among the most endangered dragonflies in the United States, as documented by G.H.
In truth dragonflies are harmless to humans – unless you force your finger into their mouth. A large golden-ringed dragonfly once gave my father's finger a bloody nip as he held it for me to photograph. But dragonflies certainly can't sting you, and they won't bite you unless severely provoked.
Underwater, aquatic plants, grasses and roots provide excellent cover to sleep among. On the land, dragonflies will sleep tucked away in bushes or under leaves, or sometimes more out in plain sight, if they feel sufficiently camouflaged. Dragonflies do sleep. Dragonflies also don't carry diseases or germs!
Snake doctor, generally used to refer to dragonflies and damselflies in the South, refers to a folk belief that dragonflies follow snakes around and stitch up injuries they may sustain, especially those that leave them in pieces.
If a dragonfly lands on you, it is widely believed to be a sign of transformation, good fortune, and a reminder to live fully in the present moment. Across spiritual traditions, this moment is seen as a blessing — a message of guidance, adaptability, and renewal.
Native American Traditions – The dragonfly is a spiritual messenger, guiding souls from the physical to the spirit world. Its appearance during mourning is seen as a sign a loved one's spirit is near.
Dragonflies are most numerous during the summer. However, certain species come out earlier; some can be seen only in the spring, their flight seasons starting in late April or early May, and finished by mid-June.
Throughout history, dragonflies have been associated with spiritual guidance and angelic presence. Their ability to adapt and thrive in various environments reflects resilience, much like the support we receive from angels. Seeing a dragonfly might just be a reminder of the love surrounding you.
Not only do dragonflies control mosquito populations – they help control other bugs, too, like midges. Attracting dragonflies to your garden and backyard requires planting a diverse array of plants. Planting trees and shrubs around the perimeter of the yard will provide adequate hiding spots for young dragonflies.
The emperor dragonfly or blue emperor (Anax imperator) is a large species of hawker dragonfly of the family Aeshnidae. It is the largest dragonfly in most of Europe, including the United Kingdom, although exceeded in some areas by other species.
The colour of adult dragonflies changes with age. Tenerals (newly emerged adults) can appear very pale and may not have their mature colouration yet. You may have to look closely for any emerging markings or patterns to help identify it. Similarly very mature adults can appear much darker.
