Summer Dragonflies on the Wing.

 Three new species for 2022 were recorded today in Bouldnor Forest near to Yarmouth. A male Golden-ringed Dragonfly hunting along  the main track seen at the end of my visit and earlier two immature Southern Hawkers,one male and one female, doing the same in a forest ride. At the ponds, along with the common damselflies and darters was a mature male Ruddy Darter. Other species  included several Black-tailed Skimmers, Emperor Dragonflies, Common Darters, and Broad-bodied Chasers.

Back on the Landslip.

Despite a brisk easterly wind the sun was shining yesterday and there was autumn warmth in sheltered spots.At several ponds on the landslip at Compton Chine the dragonfly activity remains high with all the species encountered a few days ago  still evident.However I was very pleased to observe a female Emperor majestically cruising around  the largest pond looking for places to lay her eggs.Quite late in the season to see this particular species on the wing.

Landslip Ponds.

On the Islands' south west coast the cliffs are constantly on the move due to coastal erosion.The soft sandstone is weathered by wind,rain and sea to form scattered small ponds on these plateaus of landslip.These pools and ponds are a magnet for migrating dragonflies from the continent and there is always a chance to see a special arrival here.Today in warm sunshine several resident dragonflies were seen on and around these pools.Common Darters seemed to be the main species along with several Migrant Hawkers,although it was good to see that the Common Blue Damselfly is still here.Several males were seen patrolling a small pond together with females.I must say  it was the first time that I have witnessed the sight of a seemingly expired female floating on the water only to be plucked up by a male Common Blue and taken to the bank of the pond.There the male expected to mate but due to her condition it seemed to be a forlorn hope.